ALEX multiplex allergy test (295 allergens)

ALEX (Allergy Explorer) is one of the most comprehensive multiplex allergy tests currently available. It is a highly accurate and sensitive test based on nanobead technology that tests 295 allergen extracts and components from a single blood sample. In one step, it can detect in parallel:

• allergens affecting everyday life
• dangerous allergens causing anaphylaxis
• the molecular background of cross-allergies
• heat-sensitive and heat-stable allergen proteins

Thanks to the CCD blocking process, ALEX filters out false-positive cross-reactions, thus providing more accurate and reliable results.

• can be performed from a single blood sample
• gives a complete picture of the allergens to which you may be sensitive: not only the name of the allergen (e.g. eggs, carrots), but also the responses to specific protein components can be identified, so for example, if a protein is heat-sensitive, the food can be consumed after cooking, therefore there is no need for an unnecessary diet
• possible cross-allergies can also be screened (in case of an individual allergic to a given component, another allergen with a similar chemical structure can also trigger allergic reactions)
• the ALEX test can identify relevant allergens for specific immunotherapy, which cannot be determined with conventional allergy tests and clinical history
• the risk of an allergic reaction can be estimated – mild or severe reaction (anaphylaxis)
• prevention methods can be determined – for example, whether an adrenaline injection may be necessary
• fast, detailed results within 5 working days

• in case of complex, multiple food allergies, when based on preliminary tests it seems that the patient can eat almost nothing or does not dare to eat due to the symptoms
• in case of uncertain, unknown origin allergic illnesses, hives, anaphylaxis-like attacks of unknown origin
• in case of complex respiratory allergies, when Prick test and the conventional IgE test are positive for many allergens
• for children (in their case, the most important aspect is the single blood test)
• for those with chronic allergic complaints or unidentified allergies
• for those who have experienced an anaphylactic reaction (identification of risky allergens)
• for anyone who wants to consciously treat allergies: not only to alleviate the symptoms, but also to understand exactly what they are sensitive to and prevent them

Main groups of allergens tested (295 allergens), with examples:

• food allergens: fishes and seafood (e.g. carp, cod, shrimp, mackerel, etc.), meats (e.g. domestic pork, chicken, rabbit, cattle, etc.), edible insects (e.g. miller, locusts), fruits (e.g. blueberries, strawberries, apples, peaches, etc.), vegetables (e.g. celery, tomatoes, peppers, onions, etc.), cereals (e.g. wheat, quinoa, rye, barley), spices (e.g. anise, parsley, mustard, etc.), seeds (e.g. cashews, Brazil nuts, poppy seeds, etc.), legumes (e.g. lentils, beans, peas, soy, peanuts, etc.)
• inhaled allergens: pollens (e.g. ragweed, nettle, common birch, black wormwood, etc.), animal inhalative allergens (dog, cat, horse, hamster, dust mite, etc.), fungal spores
• other allergens: latex, insect venoms, yeast, etc.

• the specific IgE determination can be influenced by diet in the case of food, medications that affect the functioning of the immune system (systemic steroid-containing medications and immunosuppressants) and certain immune system diseases
• taking antihistamines does not affect the test result
• it is worth suspending the use of steroids for 1-2 weeks before a specific IgE test from blood
• the specific IgE level determination will be informative at the earliest 4 weeks after an acute allergic reaction
• the ALEX test does not provide information about non-IgE related complaints

To determine the exact diagnosis and develop appropriate preventive or therapeutic steps, it is essential to consult a specialist, with particular attention to clinical symptoms (e.g. nature, time of their appearance, contact with the allergen). The sensitivity detected by the test does not always cause complaints, but certain allergens can also cause serious, even life-threatening reactions. That is why medical assistance is important in interpreting the results.