Individual Allergen - INSECTS AND VENOMS

This test allows you to check for a specific allergy (IgE) response to individual insect venoms and insect allergens. Reactions to stinging insects in particular can range from mild local swelling to severe, whole-body allergic reactions, so identifying a venom allergy can be an important part of understanding your risk. You can select the individual allergens you wish to test for from the list below.

How it works

• Choose the individual allergens you would like to test from the list below
• Each item is priced per marker, and you can select as many as you need
• A single blood sample is used to test all your chosen items

An important note on interpretation

This test measures the allergy (IgE) antibody response to a substance. A positive result indicates sensitisation, meaning your immune system has produced antibodies, but it is always interpreted alongside your history of reactions. The level does not reliably predict how severe a future reaction might be, and stinging insect venoms can cross-react, so it is common to test positive to several. A negative result does not completely rule out a reaction. For these reasons, results must always be interpreted by a doctor alongside your symptoms and history.

A note on safety

If you have ever had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to an insect sting, with symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, or collapse, this is a medical emergency. You should be assessed by an allergy specialist, as you may need an emergency adrenaline auto-injector and could benefit from venom immunotherapy, a long-term treatment that can reduce the risk of future severe reactions. Please do not rely on a blood test alone to assess your risk after a serious sting reaction.

Why it matters

Insect venom allergy, particularly to bees and wasps, can be serious, and identifying it allows for appropriate precautions and treatment. For those with confirmed venom allergy, effective long-term treatment is available. Understanding your specific sensitivities, alongside specialist assessment, is an important step in managing your risk and staying safe.

Stinging insect venoms
- Honey bee venom (I01)
- White-faced hornet (I02)
- Yellow jacket venom (I03)
- Paper wasp venom (I04)
- Yellow hornet (I05)
- European hornet (I75)
- Imported fire ant (I70)

Biting insects
- Mosquito (I71)
- Horsefly (I204)
- Chironomus plumosus / non-biting midge (I73)

No special preparation required.

For blood tests, we recommend drinking plenty of water beforehand to ensure smooth sample collection. If you are taking any regular medication, continue to do so unless advised otherwise by your doctor.