Lab test

Citrus Fruit Allergy Test Panel - Testing

The Citrus Fruit Allergy Test Panel is a blood test that measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against five common citrus fruits: orange, lime, lemon, tangerine, and grapefruit.

Typical price

From $159

Results

1-3 business days

Preparation

See preparation notes below

Sample

Blood draw or sample collection at a local center

The Citrus Fruit Allergy Test Panel is a blood test that measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against five common citrus fruits: orange, lime, lemon, tangerine, and grapefruit. Citrus allergy is uncommon compared with other food allergies, but when present it can cause reactions ranging from mouth itching and hives to more serious symptoms. Screening all five at once helps pinpoint which fruit, if any, is responsible for symptoms that appear after eating citrus or drinking citrus juice. Results are interpreted alongside your clinical history rather than on their own.

• Orange-specific IgE Measures IgE antibodies that react to orange proteins.
• Lime-specific IgE Measures IgE antibodies directed against lime allergens.
• Lemon-specific IgE Measures IgE antibodies that bind to lemon proteins.
• Tangerine-specific IgE Measures IgE antibodies that recognise tangerine proteins.
• Grapefruit-specific IgE Measures IgE antibodies that react to grapefruit proteins.

• People who develop itching, hives, or swelling after eating citrus fruit.
• Individuals with a suspected citrus allergy who want to identify the specific fruit involved.
• People with pollen allergies and related oral symptoms after eating fresh fruit.
• Anyone who has had a reaction to citrus juice, peel, or zest and wants further evaluation.
• Caregivers investigating reactions in children after citrus consumption.

• No fasting is required.
• Take your usual medications unless a healthcare provider instructs otherwise.
• Only pause antihistamines before testing if your provider specifically asks, as they may influence some allergy results.
• Note which citrus fruits and symptoms you have experienced to help interpret the panel.

Each fruit receives its own IgE antibody level. A positive or elevated result may indicate sensitisation to that citrus fruit, while a negative result makes allergy less likely. Because citrus fruits share some proteins, sensitivity to one may sometimes accompany sensitivity to another, though this is not guaranteed. IgE testing cannot measure how severe a future reaction might be. Review your results with a healthcare provider, who can combine them with your history and decide whether additional testing or dietary changes are appropriate.

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