Allergy - Grapefruit Test

Allergies to certain types of food are very common among people of adult age group compared to children. Allergy is the result of certain proteins of the food being detected as harmful by our immune system. Allergy to citrus fruits such as grape fruits is very common among people. Symptoms of the allergy include itching and swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, etc. Skin reactions as a result of the allergic reaction include eczema, itching, redness, swelling, etc. respiratory symptoms include stuffy nose, wheeze, sneezing, cough, difficulty to breathe. Cardiovascular symptoms include the decrease in blood pressure, fainting, etc.

The patients should always keep a check on the food they consume and note the food which is responsible for the allergic symptoms. Blood or urine samples should be collected to test the presence of IgE antibodies against the allergen (grapefruit). The patient should be wearing a sleeveless or a half sleeve dress so that it is convenient to collect blood from the cubital fossa area. A dress with full sleeves which can be rolled up easily can also be worn. To test for the allergen with a urine test, the urine sample is to be collected in a container and sent to the laboratory for testing.

The main aim of the test is to confirm the cause of allergy so that detrimental effects can be minimised. If the cause of allergy is identified in the initial stages, measures can be taken to avoid the cause of allergy. In case of contact with the allergen, immediate steps can be taken for its treatment.

Initially, the patient should be explained about the procedure of the test being conducted. For the blood test, a sample of blood should be collected. A cotton pad dipped in alcohol or spirit is used to make skin at the site of blood collection sterile. A venipuncture needle is pierced through the skin at the cubital fossa and blood sample is collected.

About 5-10 ml of blood is collected and emptied into a container containing an anticoagulant so the blood does not get clotted. The container is sealed with the name of the patient and sent to the research laboratory for investigation. For the urine test, the urine sample is to be collected after proper cleaning of the genitals. These samples are sent to test the presence of IgE antibodies against grapefruit. Presence of these antibodies indicates allergy to grapefruit.