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Serum or plasma mass concentration of mealworm-derived protein (or specific mealworm allergen)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of proteins from mealworms in your blood, which may indicate an allergic reaction to insect proteins.

Quick summary

["Assesses potential insect protein allergy through blood testing."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19747-5
Short code
Mealworm IgE Qn
Synonyms
Mealworm IgE Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test detects mealworm-specific proteins in your serum or plasma. These proteins could come from exposure to mealworms or other insect products, such as certain foods or supplements. The method used may involve sensitive techniques like immunoassay to identify these proteins accurately.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you suspect an allergy to mealworms or other insect-derived substances, particularly if you’ve experienced symptoms like rash, swelling, or digestive issues after exposure.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken, and the proteins in your serum or plasma are analyzed. The test identifies whether mealworm proteins are present, helping confirm or rule out an allergic reaction.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is less common but may be used in specialized settings, such as research or clinical studies involving insect allergens, or if you’ve consumed mealworm-based products and experienced allergic symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Mealworm Allergen Test

Frequently asked questions

How might this test help my healthcare provider?
This test can help confirm an allergy to mealworm proteins, guiding treatment options like avoiding exposure or allergy immunotherapy. It’s particularly useful in research or niche clinical scenarios where insect allergies are suspected.
What do my results mean?
Results may indicate the presence of mealworm proteins in your blood. A positive result suggests a possible allergic reaction, but further evaluation by an allergist may be needed to confirm diagnosis and tailor treatment.
Is this test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance plan and clinical indication. Check with your provider or insurance company to confirm if this specialized test is covered under your specific circumstances.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy