The Food Allergy and Sensitivity Testing (FAST 88 Foods: IgE, IgG4, IgG, C3b/d) offered by Infinite Allergy Labs is a comprehensive assessment tool designed to identify adverse reactions to a wide range of food antigens. This test analyzes various immunoglobulins (IgE, IgG4, IgG) as well as complement activation products (C3b/d), providing a thorough assessment of the immune response to 88 common food allergens.
By measuring multiple immune markers, including both immediate (IgE) and delayed (IgG, IgG4) hypersensitivity reactions, as well as complement activation, this test offers a comprehensive understanding of the body's immune reactivity to different foods. [14.]
For patients, this test can offer insights into their individual sensitivities and intolerances, helping them identify specific dietary triggers contributing to various health issues such as digestive problems, skin disorders, autoimmune conditions, and chronic inflammation. Bby pinpointing potential food allergens, patients can make informed dietary modifications to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.
For medical providers, the FAST 88 Foods test provides a valuable tool for identifying food sensitivities and allergies, guiding personalized treatment plans, and optimizing patient care. This comprehensive approach to food allergy testing empowers both patients and healthcare providers to address underlying immune imbalances and promote better health outcomes.
By testing levels of immunoglobulins and other immune molecules in dried blood spot, this test avoids the necessity for venipuncture which is unpleasant for many patients.
IgE, an immunoglobulin subclass, plays a pivotal role in the body's allergic responses, particularly immediate hypersensitivity reactions triggered by exposure to foreign substances. These reactions can manifest as symptoms ranging from mild itching and hives to severe anaphylactic shock, depending on the individual's sensitivity and the allergen involved.
This test helps identify potential allergic triggers, including food items and environmental antigens like pollen or pet dander, aiding in the diagnosis and management of allergic conditions.
Additionally, IgE-mediated reactions can also manifest with digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, highlighting the importance of comprehensive testing for diagnosing allergic conditions involving the gastrointestinal tract. [10.]
Food sensitivity testing using IgG antibodies is employed by Infinite Allergy Labs in their FAST 88 Foods panel due to its potential clinical relevance in identifying delayed immune responses to specific food antigens.
While IgE-mediated food allergies typically provoke immediate hypersensitivity reactions, IgG-mediated responses are associated with delayed onset reactions, making them challenging to diagnose clinically.
Evidence suggests that IgG antibody testing for food sensitivities may shed light for clinicians. [5., 12., 15.] Some studies indicate that IgG-mediated immune responses might contribute to the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal inflammation. [13.]
By detecting IgG antibodies to specific food antigens, the FAST 88 Foods panel aims to identify potential triggers for immune-mediated reactions and provide insights into personalized dietary modifications to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health outcomes.
IgG4, a subtype of immunoglobulin G antibodies, plays a crucial role in modulating immune responses, particularly in the context of allergies. Research indicates that IgG4 antibodies can help neutralize allergic reactions orchestrated by IgE, thereby mitigating histamine responses and promoting immune tolerance to foods.
It's essential to maintain a balanced level of IgG4, as excessive amounts can paradoxically lead to increased inflammation and immune sensitization; increased IgG4 levels have been associated with allergies and with autoimmune conditions.
For instance, elevated IgG4 levels have been implicated in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, myasthenia gravis, pemphigus vulgaris and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. [6., 9., 11.]
C3b/d (Complement Component 3) is a protein of the innate immune system that is activated by microorganisms in the absence of an antibody. The inclusion of complement proteins C3d and C3b in the Food Allergy and Sensitivity Testing (FAST 88 Foods: IgE, IgG4, IgG, C3b/d) by Infinite Allergy Labs provides a more comprehensive assessment of the immune response to dietary antigens.
Complement proteins play a crucial role in the immune cascade triggered by IgG-mediated reactions. Specifically, C3d and C3b are involved in the opsonization of immune complexes, facilitating their recognition and clearance by phagocytic cells; their role can increase the actions of IgG antibodies many times over. By measuring levels of C3d and C3b alongside IgG antibodies against 88 common foods, this test offers valuable insights into the inflammatory response associated with food sensitivities.
Complement activation, particularly through the C3d/C3b pathway, may contribute to the pathogenesis of various immune-mediated disorders, including food sensitivities and allergic reactions. [18.]
If patients are exhibiting allergy symptoms or have tested positive for allergens like Aspergillus, Yeast, and Candida on food allergy and sensitivity tests, it may be prudent to extend testing to include environmental allergens on a panel such as the Environmental Allergy Test (88 Antigen IgE) By Infinite Allergy Labs.
This approach enables healthcare providers to comprehensively assess the patient's allergic sensitivities, as exposure to environmental allergens can exacerbate existing symptoms or contribute to overall allergic burden.
Identifying and addressing environmental allergens alongside food sensitivities can lead to more effective management and treatment strategies tailored to the individual patient's needs, ultimately improving their quality of life.
Research supports the importance of comprehensive allergy testing to guide personalized treatment approaches and minimize allergic reactions. [17.]
Dried blood spot (DBS) samples offer a convenient and minimally invasive method for food sensitivity testing, particularly for individuals who may find traditional blood draws challenging or uncomfortable. DBS sampling involves collecting a small drop of blood from a finger prick onto a filter paper, which is then dried and preserved for analysis.
Research has demonstrated the validity and reliability of DBS sampling for detecting various biomarkers, including immunoglobulins and inflammatory markers related to food sensitivities.
This approach not only simplifies sample collection but also facilitates easier transportation and storage, making it a practical option for both patients and healthcare providers seeking comprehensive assessments of food-related immune reactions. [1., 4.]
Many individuals can benefit from the Food Allergy and Sensitivity Testing (FAST 88 Foods: IgE, IgG4, IgG, C3b/d) offered by Infinite Allergy Labs:
Individuals experiencing chronic digestive issues: many patients experience frustrating digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation yet receive no answers. The Food Allergy and Sensitivity Testing (FAST 88 Foods: IgG with C3d/C3b) By Infinite Allergy Labs may provide insight into food sensitivities that have been linked to gastrointestinal symptoms. [2.]
Those suffering from skin conditions: eczema, psoriasis, or chronic urticaria may be linked to food sensitivities that exacerbate these dermatological conditions. [8.]
People with autoimmune disorders: emerging evidence suggests a potential association between food sensitivities and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. [3.]
Individuals experiencing unexplained symptoms without relief: fatigue, brain fog, headaches, joint pain, or mood disturbances, as these symptoms are often associated with food sensitivities and immune-mediated reactions. [12.]
People struggling to lose weight: those people who find weight loss challenging despite typical diet and lifestyle interventions may benefit from a food sensitivity assessment. [16.]
This test may also benefit those seeking to optimize their diet and overall health by identifying potential triggers for immune-mediated responses and making informed dietary modifications accordingly.
It is important to note that every result should be interpreted within the context of the individual’s health history.
[1.] Andersen NJ, Mondal TK, Preissler MT, Freed BM, Stockinger S, Bell E, Druschel C, Louis GM, Lawrence DA. Detection of immunoglobulin isotypes from dried blood spots. J Immunol Methods. 2014 Feb;404:24-32. doi: 10.1016/j.jim.2013.12.001. Epub 2013 Dec 13. PMID: 24333851; PMCID: PMC4663688.
[2.] Atkinson W, Sheldon TA, Shaath N, Whorwell PJ. Food elimination based on IgG antibodies in irritable bowel syndrome: a randomised controlled trial. Gut. 2004 Oct;53(10):1459-64. doi: 10.1136/gut.2003.037697. PMID: 15361495; PMCID: PMC1774223.
[3.] Coucke F. Food intolerance in patients with manifest autoimmunity. Observational study. Autoimmun Rev. 2018 Nov;17(11):1078-1080. doi: 10.1016/j.autrev.2018.05.011. Epub 2018 Sep 11. PMID: 30213697.
[4.] Garib V, Rigler E, Gastager F, et al. Determination of IgE and IgG reactivity to more than 170 allergen molecules in paper-dried blood spots. Europe PMC (PubMed Central). 2019;143(1):437-440. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2018.08.047
[5.] Geiselman JF. The Clinical Use of IgG Food Sensitivity Testing with Migraine Headache Patients: a Literature Review. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2019 Aug 27;23(11):79. doi: 10.1007/s11916-019-0819-4. PMID: 31456119.
[6.] Koneczny I. Update on IgG4-mediated autoimmune diseases: New insights and new family members. Autoimmunity Reviews. 2020;19(10):102646. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102646
[7.] Laura, Jong, Constance, et al. IgG Antibodies in Food Allergy Influence Allergen–Antibody Complex Formation and Binding to B Cells: A Role for Complement Receptors. Journal of Immunology. 2013;191(7):3526-3533. doi:https://doi.org/10.4049/jimmunol.1202398
[8.] Liu Y, Yan H, Shao F, Li QH, Cui M. Correlation between childhood eczema and specific IgG antibody level. J Biol Regul Homeost Agents. 2018 Mar-Apr;32(2):341-344. PMID: 29685016.
[9.] Maslinska M, Dmowska-Chalaba J, Jakubaszek M. The Role of IgG4 in Autoimmunity and Rheumatic Diseases. Front Immunol. 2022 Jan 25;12:787422. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.787422. PMID: 35145508; PMCID: PMC8821096.
[10.] Pearson JS, Niven RM, Meng J, Atarodi S, Whorwell PJ. Immunoglobulin E in irritable bowel syndrome: another target for treatment? A case report and literature review. Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2015 Sep;8(5):270-7. doi: 10.1177/1756283X15588875. PMID: 26327917; PMCID: PMC4530434.
[11.] Qin L, Tang LF, Cheng L, Wang HY. The clinical significance of allergen-specific IgG4 in allergic diseases. Front Immunol. 2022 Oct 25;13:1032909. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1032909. PMID: 36389804; PMCID: PMC9648126.
[12.] ] Shakoor Z, AlFaifi A, AlAmro B, AlTawil LN, AlOhaly RY. Prevalence of IgG-mediated food intolerance among patients with allergic symptoms. Ann Saudi Med. 2016 Nov-Dec;36(6):386-390. doi: 10.5144/0256-4947.2016.386. PMID: 27920409; PMCID: PMC6074204.
[13.] Simeonova D, Ivanovska M, Murdjeva M, Carvalho AF, Maes M. Recognizing the Leaky Gut as a Trans-diagnostic Target for Neuroimmune Disorders Using Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Immunology Assays. Curr Top Med Chem. 2018;18(19):1641-1655. doi: 10.2174/1568026618666181115100610. PMID: 30430944.
[14.] Vighi G, Marcucci F, Sensi L, Di Cara G, Frati F. Allergy and the gastrointestinal system. Clin Exp Immunol. 2008 Sep;153 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):3-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03713.x. PMID: 18721321; PMCID: PMC2515351.
[15.] Vita AA, Zwickey H, Bradley R. Associations between food-specific IgG antibodies and intestinal permeability biomarkers. Front Nutr. 2022 Sep 6;9:962093. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2022.962093. PMID: 36147305; PMCID: PMC9485556.
[16.] Wilders-Truschnig M, Mangge H, Lieners C, Gruber H, Mayer C, März W. IgG antibodies against food antigens are correlated with inflammation and intima media thickness in obese juveniles. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. 2008 Apr;116(4):241-5. doi: 10.1055/s-2007-993165. Epub 2007 Dec 10. PMID: 18072008.
[17.] Xing H, Wang J, Sun Y, Wang H. Recent Advances in the Allergic Cross-Reactivity between Fungi and Foods. J Immunol Res. 2022 Oct 7;2022:7583400. doi: 10.1155/2022/7583400. PMID: 36249419; PMCID: PMC9568318.
[18.] Yves Laumonnier, Rabia Ülkü Korkmaz, Nowacka AA, Jörg Köhl. Complement‐mediated immune mechanisms in allergy. European Journal of Immunology. 2023;53(10). doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/eji.202249979
The finger prick-based 88 Food Dried Blood Spot test assesses specific immunoglobulins, including IgE, IgG4, IgG, and C3b/d levels from a dried blood sample. By measuring these immune markers, the 88 Food DBS test provides valuable insights into potential food sensitivities and allergies, aiding in personalized dietary and health recommendations.
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On December 11th, join Dr. Terry Wahls in a 
