Lab test
Sheep Allergy Test - Allergic To Sheep?
The sheep allergy test is a blood test that measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against sheep epithelium, the tissue and skin cells shed by sheep.
- Typical price
- From $49
- Results
- 1-3 business days
- Preparation
- See preparation notes below
- Sample
- Blood draw or sample collection at a local center
About this test
The sheep allergy test is a blood test that measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against sheep epithelium, the tissue and skin cells shed by sheep. It helps determine whether exposure to sheep is contributing to allergy symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, or skin irritation. Sheep allergens can be carried in dander and may cling to clothing, wool, equipment, and indoor surfaces. The test is typically ordered for farm workers, textile workers, and others who develop symptoms around sheep.
What this test measures
- Sheep epithelium-specific IgE Detects IgE antibodies that bind to sheep epithelium (tissue and skin cell) allergens in the blood.
Who this test may be right for
- Farmers, shepherds, and veterinary staff with symptoms around sheep.
- Textile and wool workers with occupational sheep allergen exposure.
- People with asthma or rhinitis that worsens around sheep or barn environments.
- Those being evaluated as part of a broader animal-dander allergy panel.
Before your visit
- No fasting is required.
- Tell the clinician about antihistamines and other allergy medications.
- Continue prescribed medications unless a healthcare provider advises otherwise.
- Wear a loose top or short sleeves for easy blood collection.
Understanding your results
A positive result suggests the immune system has produced IgE antibodies to sheep epithelium, which may indicate a sensitivity contributing to sneezing, nasal congestion, or airway symptoms around sheep. A negative result makes sheep allergy less likely but does not exclude wool, lanolin, hay, or other barn allergens. Because several animal danders share some allergens, cross-reactions can occur. Discuss your results with a healthcare provider for full context.
Order this test online
- Buy online in a few minutes - no doctor's visit needed for most tests.
- Sample collection at a patient service center near you.
- Results are typically ready within 1-3 business days.
- Secure, lab-reviewed results delivered to your account.
Affiliate link: we may earn a commission from orders placed through it, at no extra cost to you.
Related tests
Apple Allergy Test - Allergic To Apples?
This IgE antibody allergy test uses a blood sample to determine if you are allergic to Apples.
View testBasil Allergy Test - Allergic To Basil?
This IgE antibody allergy test uses a blood sample to determine if you are allergic to Basil.
View testBeef Allergy Test - Allergic To Red Meat?
This IgE antibody allergy test uses a blood sample to determine if you are allergic to Beef.
View testCat Dander Allergy Test - Allergic To Cats?
Find out if you are allergic to cat dander with our cat dander IgE allergy test.
View testFind this test in your state
Questions people ask
What does the sheep allergy test measure?
It measures sheep epithelium-specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which can indicate sensitization to sheep tissue and skin cell allergens.
Does a sheep allergy mean I am allergic to wool?
Not necessarily. Epithelium sensitivity and reactions to wool or lanolin are related but distinct, and a healthcare provider can help sort out the difference.
Do I need to fast before the test?
No. Fasting is not required for this blood allergy test.
What is the turnaround time?
Turnaround is typically 1-3 business days.
What does the Sheep Allergy Test - Allergic To Sheep? measure?
This IgE antibody allergy test uses a blood sample to determine if you are allergic to Sheep Epithelium (tissue).
Do I need to fast before this test?
Follow the lab's instructions.
How long do results take?
Most Sheep Allergy Test - Allergic To Sheep? results are released in 1-3 business days. Specialty testing can take longer.
Is this test right for me?
This page is educational and not medical advice. Talk to a licensed healthcare provider about which tests fit your situation.
LabBookings is an independent directory. We compare test details and pricing information, but we are not a laboratory and we do not perform testing or provide medical advice. Always talk to a licensed healthcare provider about your results and treatment.
Laboratory services are provided by independent, CLIA-certified testing partners. Availability, pricing, and turnaround times can vary by location and are confirmed at checkout.