Customised Allergy Testing Options

The ALEX® Allergy Explorer is a cutting-edge and scientifically advanced in vitro allergy test that allows for simultaneous measurement of both total IgE and specific IgE against a wide range of allergen extracts and molecular allergens. Utilising nano-bead technology, it is considered the new gold standard for in vitro Type I allergy testing. With the ability to test for up to 295 allergens in just one blood sample, it is the most comprehensive test of its kind. This test is especially useful for individuals with multiple allergies as it can help identify cross-reactive allergen groups, such as profilins, LTPs, Tropomycins, or CCDs, which can assist in predicting the severity of future reactions and determining if desensitisation immunotherapy would be beneficial.

An allergic reaction occurs when certain elements are present in the body. These elements include an allergen, which is the substance causing the allergy, and Immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody produced by the immune system in response to the allergen. When an allergen enters the body of someone with an allergy, the immune system produces a large amount of IgE antibodies. These antibodies attach to cells called mastocytes, which are found in the skin, nose, and bronchia. Repeated exposure to the same allergen leads to an increase in the amount of IgE antibodies that attach to the allergen on the mastocytes. This causes the mastocytes to release chemical mediators, particularly histamine, which causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Common environmental allergens that can cause respiratory allergies include pollen from plants, dust mites, and spores from fungi.

The test for allergies measures a patient’s sensitisation status through in vitro multiplex testing. The results show the measurement of the patient’s total IgE, which indicates if an allergy is likely, possible or unlikely. The test also measures specific IgE against 295 allergen extracts and molecular allergens, which gives a detailed profile of the possible allergens causing symptoms. However, any diagnosis, positive or negative, should be confirmed by consulting a specialist.

• 1 sample tube for your blood sample
• Alcohol pads to keep everything clean and sterile
• Lancets to prick your finger for the sample collection
• 1 transport tube to protect your sample tube
• 1 prepaid return envelope to mail your sample back to our lab
• Detailed instructions for use

We take great care to ensure that all kits are thoroughly inspected and checked for missing parts before they are sent out to our customers. However, if you do happen to receive an incomplete kit, please do not hesitate to reach out to our customer service team for assistance. We will be more than happy to help resolve any issues you may have.

The test result are not affected by medications or your diet at the time of doing the tests, fasting is not required.

Read through our step-by-step instructions

1. GET STARTED

Set aside about 30 minutes for the collection of your sample. Put the kit on a clean surface in front of you. Stick the sample tube upright into the prepared slot. Select a finger for the collection of your sample, for example the index or middle finger of your non-dominant hand.

Tips to help your blood flow

• Drink 2 cups of water about 30 minutes before taking the test
• Do gentle exercise for 1 minute if you can
• Clench and release your fist for a minute
• Keep your hand lower than your chest throughout the process if you can

2. WARM HANDS

Warm your hands under warm water for 2-3 minutes to stimulate blood flow, then dry them thoroughly.

3. CLEAN FINGERTIP

Sanitise the fingertip of your previously selected finger with an alcohol pad from your  kit.

4. PRICK FINGER

Take one of the lancets in your kit and remove the cap by twisting the tip. Place the tip of the lancet against your cleaned fingertip. Press your fingertip against the device until it’s activated. Don’t worry, you won’t see a needle.

5. COLLECT SAMPLE

Wipe away the first drop of blood with another alcohol wipe from your kit. Gently massage your finger and drip blood into the sample tube until the indicated amount is reached. This might take several minutes.

6. FINISH UP

After successfully collecting your sample, apply an adhesive bandage to your finger. Close the sample tube by pushing the cap back onto it until it clicks. Let it rest upright for 15 minutes.

7. RETURN SAMPLE

Place the closed sample tube into the transport tube from the kit. Close the transport tube and put it into the prepaid return envelope and promptly send it back to our lab for testing.

It is important to use the lancets provided in your kit when collecting your blood sample. Using any other sharp objects, such as knives or scissors, is not recommended as it is not sanitary and can lead to injury. Additionally, some individuals may experience vasovagal syncope, which is a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain, when seeing blood. If you have a history of fainting, it is best to have someone else collect the blood sample for you.

It is important to send your blood sample back to the laboratory as soon as possible after it has been collected. A delay in sending the sample can make it difficult or even impossible for the lab to process it. To ensure that your sample can be tested correctly, we recommend dropping off your return envelope on the same day as the blood collection. This will help to ensure that your sample remains viable for testing.

Upon receiving your blood sample, our laboratory follows a series of protocols to ensure that it is suitable for testing. This includes checking for any damages and verifying that there is an adequate amount of blood to conduct the requested test. If the sample passes these evaluations, it is then prepared for analysis. After the analysis, a physician reviews the results and approves them before they are sent to you. Typically, results are delivered within 10 business days of the lab receiving the sample. However, keep in mind that postal delays may occur.