Whey Allergy

This whey allergy test looks for an allergic reaction to Whey Proteins in milk by measuring IgE antibodies. Whey makes up about 20% of the proteins in Cow’s milk. People with an allergy to one or more of the proteins in whey will experience symptoms such as rash, itching, hives, swelling around the face or throat, nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and constipation when they consume milk or milk products. Many people develop a milk allergy early in life. Some people’s allergies subside as they grow older but some persist into adulthood.

A Whey Allergy Test is typically ordered when a person experiences allergy symptoms within 48 hours of consuming milk or dairy products. This test measures allergic reaction to Whey but does not break it down into specific proteins. Testing is also available which looks for allergies to 2 specific types of whey protein, Alpha-Lactalbumin and Beta-Lactoglobulin. A Milk Allergy test which looks at a-lactalbumin and b-lactoglobulin as well as Casein, another major milk protein, can also be ordered.

Turnaround for this test is typically 4-6 business days.