Description

An allergy tree panel typically refers to a series of tests used to identify allergies to tree pollen. Trees are one of the major sources of airborne allergens, and their pollen can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, especially during specific times of the year when trees are in bloom.

The panel usually includes a variety of tree pollen extracts commonly associated with allergies. Some of the tree species commonly included in such panels might include:

1. Birch
2. Oak
3. Maple
4. Ash
5. Elm
6. Cedar
7. Pine
8. Sycamore

The specific trees included in the panel may vary depending on geographic location and the prevalence of certain tree species in the area.

The testing process typically involves either a skin prick test or a blood test (specifically IgE antibody testing). In a skin prick test, small amounts of allergen extracts are placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and then the skin is pricked with a needle to allow the allergens to enter the skin. If a person is allergic to a particular tree pollen, they will develop a small raised bump (a wheal) and redness at the site within about 15-20 minutes.

In IgE antibody testing, a blood sample is taken and tested for the presence of specific IgE antibodies that react to tree pollen allergens. Elevated levels of IgE antibodies to specific tree pollens indicate sensitization and potential allergic reaction upon exposure.

Once the test results are obtained, they are interpreted by a healthcare provider who specializes in allergies, such as an allergist or immunologist. The results help identify which tree pollens a person is allergic to, which can guide treatment and management strategies, such as avoidance measures, medications, or allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots).