ABPA SCREEN (TOTAL IGE SPECIFIC IGE AF) Test in UAE

ABPA Screen (Total IgE & Specific IgE Af) test available in Dubai and across the UAE to detect allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), a hypersensitivity reaction to the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. This comprehensive screening measures both total IgE levels and specific IgE antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus, aiding early diagnosis in patients with asthma or cystic fibrosis. Results available within 5–7 days.

Overview

The ABPA Screen is a blood test that evaluates the immune response to Aspergillus fumigatus, a common mold found in the environment. It includes measurement of total immunoglobulin E (IgE) and specific IgE antibodies directed against Aspergillus fumigatus (Af). Elevated levels suggest an allergic reaction in the lungs, commonly seen in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), a condition that can mimic or worsen asthma and cystic fibrosis. This test is crucial for early detection and preventing lung damage. Results are typically available within 5–7 business days.

Why You Need This Test

• Diagnose allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in patients with poorly controlled asthma or cystic fibrosis.
• Evaluate chronic cough, wheezing, or recurrent chest infections unresponsive to standard treatment.
• Investigate elevated total IgE levels without clear allergic cause.
• Monitor disease progression or treatment response in known ABPA cases.
• Assess patients with central bronchiectasis on imaging.
• Support diagnosis when sputum culture shows Aspergillus but infection is not confirmed.
• Available with home blood collection in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and all Emirates.

Symptoms & Risk Factors

Common Symptoms

• Wheezing or worsening asthma not responding to inhalers
• Chronic cough with brownish mucus plugs
• Fever or malaise without infection
• Shortness of breath during routine activities
• Chest tightness or recurrent pneumonia-like episodes

Risk Factors

• Asthma, especially severe or corticosteroid-dependent
• Cystic fibrosis (CF) – up to 15% may develop ABPA
• Long-term exposure to mold (e.g., compost, decaying vegetation)
• Elevated total IgE (>1000 IU/mL)
• History of pulmonary infiltrates or bronchiectasis
• Positive skin test to Aspergillus

How the Test Works

The ABPA Screen evaluates two key immune markers:

• Total IgE: Often markedly elevated in ABPA (typically >1000 IU/mL).
• Specific IgE to Aspergillus fumigatus: Indicates sensitization to the fungus.

Together, these help differentiate ABPA from simple fungal colonization or other allergic conditions. The test uses a blood sample analyzed via immunoassay (e.g., ImmunoCAP or ELISA) for high sensitivity and specificity.

• Step 1 — Appointment: Schedule a blood draw at a lab or request home collection.
• Step 2 — Sample: A standard venous blood sample (serum) is collected.
• Step 3 — Analysis: Lab tests for total IgE and specific IgE Af levels.
• Step 4 — Results: Delivered securely within 5–7 business days.

This test is a cornerstone in diagnosing ABPA and guiding steroid or antifungal therapy.

Sample Type

• We take: Venous blood (serum sample)
• Volume: 1–2 mL of blood in a serum separator tube (SST)
• Container: Gold-top or red-top tube (clotting required)
• How it’s collected: Standard venipuncture (arm draw)
• Storage: Serum must be separated within 2 hours and stored at 2–8°C
• Note: Hemolyzed or lipemic samples may affect accuracy

Risks & Safety

• Minimal risk — standard blood draw with brief discomfort.
• No fasting or special prep required for this test.
• No side effects expected post-collection.
• Safe for adults, adolescents, and children.
• Home collection available with trained phlebotomists.

Result Interpretation

Normal Range

• Total IgE: < 100 IU/mL (varies by age and lab)
• Specific IgE Af: < 0.35 kU/L (negative)
• Levels are age-dependent; higher in children and allergic individuals

Elevated Levels

• Total IgE > 1000 IU/mL + positive Specific IgE Af strongly suggests ABPA.
• May also indicate:
  • Aspergillus sensitization without full ABPA
  • Severe atopic asthma
  • Parasitic infections (can elevate total IgE)

Low/Normal Levels

• Make ABPA less likely, but do not fully rule it out.
• May suggest:
  • Non-allergic asthma
  • Bacterial or viral bronchitis
  • Other lung conditions (e.g., COPD, TB)

Consequences if Untreated

• Progressive lung damage and bronchiectasis.
• Permanent decline in lung function and breathing capacity.
• Chronic steroid dependence due to worsening asthma.
• Pulmonary fibrosis in advanced cases.
• Increased risk of respiratory failure over time.

Factors Affecting Test Results

• Recent corticosteroid use: may suppress IgE levels.
• Antihistamines: do not affect IgE levels but may interfere with skin testing.
• Other fungal allergies: may cause cross-reactivity.
• Parasitic infections: can elevate total IgE independently.
• Age: children naturally have higher IgE levels.
• Smoking: may influence immune markers.

FAQs

Limitations

• Not diagnostic alone — must be combined with clinical and radiological findings.
• Steroid use can suppress IgE, leading to false-negative results.
• False positives possible in other fungal allergies or parasitic infections.
• Requires careful interpretation by a pulmonologist or allergist.
• Normal IgE does not completely rule out ABPA in early stages.

Book Your ABPA Screen Test Today

Don’t ignore persistent asthma-like symptoms — rule out fungal allergy with a simple blood test.

• Home Blood Collection Available (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah & all Emirates)
• Accurate & Reliable Testing in Certified Labs
• Price: AED 400
• ✅ Immunoassay Technology | Allergology-Grade Analysis
• 💉 Trained Phlebotomists | Comfortable at-Home Service
• 🔒 Confidential Results in 5–7 Days