The spelling of the word "Allergens Radioimmunosorbent Assays" can be a bit daunting. The key is breaking it down phonetically. Let's start with "allergens," which is pronounced uh-ler-juhns. Then, we have "radioimmunosorbent," pronounced ray-dee-oh-im-yoo-noh-sor-bunt. Finally, "assays" is pronounced uh-seyz. Altogether, it sounds like uh-ler-juhns ray-dee-oh-im-yoo-noh-sor-bunt uh-seyz. These assays are used to detect allergens in a patient's blood, making it easier to diagnose allergies and related conditions.
Allergens Radioimmunosorbent Assays (RAST) is a laboratory technique used to diagnose allergies in individuals. It is a type of immunoassay that measures the levels of specific IgE antibodies in a person's blood, which are produced in response to exposure to allergenic substances, known as allergens. This diagnostic test is typically conducted to identify the allergen(s) causing allergic reactions in patients.
RAST operates on the principle of antigen-antibody reaction. A blood sample is obtained from the patient and mixed with various known allergens. If an allergy is present, the specific IgE antibodies in the blood will bind with the corresponding allergen, forming an antigen-antibody complex. This complex is then quantitatively measured through the use of a radiolabeled anti-IgE antibody.
By detecting and measuring the levels of specific IgE antibodies to different allergens, RAST helps identify the substances to which a patient is allergic. This information aids allergists in determining an appropriate treatment plan, such as allergen avoidance strategies, immunotherapy, or medication.
RAST offers advantages over other allergy testing methods, such as skin prick tests, as it can be performed in patients who are unable to discontinue certain medications or have a high risk of severe allergic reactions. However, it is worth noting that RAST has largely been replaced by newer technologies, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), which provide more accurate and efficient results.