- Please note that the treatments described in this article are not currently offered at our clinic. This content is provided for informational purposes only.
“What types of allergy tests are available?”
“What are the symptoms of allergies, and how are they treated?”
If you have been wondering about these questions, you are not alone.
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to foreign substances that enter the body.
This article explains the types of allergy tests and the symptoms associated with allergies.
The latter half also covers the cost of allergy testing and how to manage allergic reactions, so please read to the end.
Table of Contents
- 1 What Is an Allergy Test?
- 2 Types of Allergy Tests
- 2.1 Allergy Test (1) MAST36
- 2.2 Allergy Test (2) MAST48mix
- 2.3 Allergy Test (3) VIEW39
- 3 Cost of the 39-Item Allergy Test
- 4 What Exactly Is an Allergy?
- 5 Symptoms of Allergies
- 6 Treatment Options for Allergies
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions about Allergy Testing
- 7.1 Where (and in which department) should I get an allergy test?
- 7.2 How long does it take to receive allergy test results?
What Is an Allergy Test?
An allergy test is a blood test used to identify what types of allergies you may have.
Allergens that can trigger allergic reactions include a wide range of substances such as pollen, house dust, foods, and metals.
Knowing your specific allergens through allergy testing can help you avoid them in daily life.
In particular, depending on your constitution, certain allergens may trigger severe reactions such as anaphylactic shock, so it is advisable to identify your allergens in advance to protect your health.
Types of Allergy Tests
There are three main types of allergy tests:
- MAST36
- MAST48mix
- VIEW39
Allergy tests are performed through blood sampling, and the type of test is selected based on the suspected allergens.
The following sections describe the test items and characteristics of each type.
Allergy Test (1) MAST36
MAST36 allows simultaneous measurement of 36 allergens that are among the most common causes of allergic reactions.
The test covers the following categories:
| Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Food Allergens | 20 items |
| Pollen Allergens | 8 items |
| Environmental Allergens | 4 items |
| Other Allergens | 4 items |
Examples of allergens covered by MAST36 include:
- Milk
- Wheat
- Soybean
- Japanese cedar (Sugi)
- Japanese cypress (Hinoki)
While the number of items is limited, the test covers fundamental allergens.
Allergy Test (2) MAST48mix
MAST48mix is an allergy test that builds on MAST36 by adding 6 mix items (covering 18 allergen types).
A “mix” item is one that includes multiple allergens within a single test category. If an allergic reaction is detected in a mix item, further individual allergy testing will be required.
The newly added mix items are:
- Tree nuts
- Mold
- Ragweed
- Grass (Poaceae)
- Dust mites
- Pets (dog and cat)
If any of the above allergens are suspected, MAST48mix is recommended.
Allergy Test (3) VIEW39
VIEW39 is an allergy test that expands on the MAST36 panel by incorporating items that have been gaining recognition in recent years.
Additional items include insects such as moths and cockroaches. The panel also covers allergens not found in MAST36, such as mackerel, apple, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (house dust mite), and Malassezia.
Cost of the 39-Item Allergy Test
The estimated costs for allergy testing are as follows:
| Type of Allergy Test | Estimated Cost ※ With 30% patient co-payment |
|---|---|
| General Allergy Test | Approx. ¥4,700 |
| Hay Fever (Pollen) Allergy Test | Approx. ¥1,800 |
When allergy symptoms are present, allergy testing may be covered by public health insurance.
What Exactly Is an Allergy?
An allergy is a condition in which the immune system overreacts to substances such as pollen or food proteins, causing various effects on the body.
There are two types of immunity:
- Innate immunity: immunity that living organisms are naturally born with
- Acquired immunity: immunity developed in response to external stimuli
Allergies are believed to involve a type of antibody called “IgE,” which is part of acquired immunity and functions to protect the body.
When IgE levels in the body increase, the immune system may begin to overreact to specific substances — this is the mechanism behind allergic reactions.
IgE can also be produced in response to substances such as dust mites, pollen, and food proteins.
Additionally, an “allergic constitution” — the tendency to produce IgE more readily — is thought to be hereditary.
Symptoms of Allergies
Allergies can cause symptoms such as:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
Allergy symptoms can resemble those of a common cold, but differences include a watery nasal discharge and frequent, repeated sneezing.
Some individuals may also experience itchy or red eyes, skin itching, or hives.
In the case of food allergies, consuming the trigger food may lead to anaphylactic shock and respiratory distress, which requires careful attention.
Since allergic reactions can vary depending on individual constitution and physical condition, it is advisable to avoid known allergens as much as possible.
Treatment Options for Allergies
There is currently no curative treatment for allergies; management is primarily symptomatic.
The most important step in managing allergies is to avoid allergens.
For example, keeping away from inhalant allergens such as pollen and pet dander is a key preventive measure.
If a specific food is identified as an allergen, it should be avoided in the diet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Allergy Testing
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about allergy testing.
Where (and in which department) should I get an allergy test?
Allergy tests can be performed at dermatology, internal medicine, and otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) clinics.
However, not all medical facilities offer allergy testing, so it is advisable to confirm availability in advance.
How long does it take to receive allergy test results?
Allergy test results are generally available within approximately one week.
MAST36 results are typically ready in 3 to 5 days, while VIEW39 results may take around one week.
As a general guideline, allergy test results can be expected within approximately one week.
In severe cases, allergies can be life-threatening due to anaphylactic shock.
By undergoing allergy testing and identifying your allergens in advance, you can take steps to avoid triggering an allergic reaction.
If you have not yet had an allergy test, or if you suspect you may have any allergic sensitivities, consider getting tested to help protect your health and wellbeing.
