Allergy, House Dust (Hollister-Stier Labs)

House dust allergies are a reaction to the particular allergens found inside a house, such as dust mites, pollens, etc. The daily use items such as bedding, upholstered furniture, etc., form an ideal ground for the shelter and growth of allergens.

As an immune response to the allergens, the body produces antibodies which trigger chemical releases such as histamines, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins from immunoglobulin E (IgE) cells to combat the spread of the perceived infection and pathogens. The immune system develops house dust (Hollister-Stier) (h2) IgE antibodies upon interaction with the pathogen. Due to the reaction, the affected patient experiences inflammation along with other uncomfortable symptoms in the body.

The most common symptoms of the allergic reaction consist of:

• Persistent sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery, or red eyes
• Nasal congestion 
• Uncomfortable post-congestion nasal dripping
• Facial pressure 
• Swollen and bluish skin under the eyes
• Scratchy roof of the mouth or nose

The severe allergic reaction can have asthma-inducing effects such as:

• Chest pressure and tightness
• Audible wheezing sound with exhalation 
• Difficulty sleeping due to shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing
• Chronic bouts of coughing similar to respiratory illnesses like flu or cold

In certain extreme cases, the allergy can cause an anaphylactic reaction, eczema flare, and severe asthma attack. Since most of the symptoms of the allergy are similar to the flu, it's difficult to diagnose the specific causes of the reaction without an allergy house dust (Hollister-Stier Labs) test. The analysis assists the medical practitioner in detecting the underlying causes of the present signs and preventing the severity of the allergy.

For IgE house dust, Hollister-Stier (H-S) laboratory test, a lab technician draws out blood from the arms of the affected individual. The blood specimens are collected in a vial to extract the serum for house dust (Hollister-Stier) (h2) IgE antibody detection. The sample is centrifuged first for extracting the clear liquid called serum, upon which the tests are performed with immuno-sensitive chemicals.

Usually, the blood sample collection for Hollister-Stier allergy testing causes little to no side effects. However, in a few patients, it can form complications like:

• Bruising at the site of extraction
• Bleeding at the needle insertion part
• Mild rash
• Skin irritation due to bandages
• Clogged vein due to inflammation
• Dizziness due to a vasovagal reaction 
• Infection at the needle insertion site due to lack of post-collection hygiene.

The symptoms subside within 1-3 days. In the event of prolonged discomfort post collection, the patient must visit a medical expert at the earliest.

Apollo 24|7 provides a list of efficient laboratories across the country with top-notch medical tools and technology to offer accurate Hollister-Stier allergy testing results. The test aids in diagnosing allergic diseases and the identification of the responsible pathogens. The house dust allergy diagnosis dictates the future course of treatment by factoring in the following:

• Clinical manifestations 
• Record of previous sensitivity
• The kinds of allergens detected 
• Age of the patient
• History of exposure to the specific pathogen
• The duration of the previous response and the time of the occurrence
  
  Medically reviewed by Dr Jatin Ahuja, Infectious Diseases, Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, South Delhi.

Frequently asked questions

What does IgE house dust, Hollister-Stier (H-S) laboratory test detect?

The Hollister-Stier allergy testing indicates the presence of antibodies formed in the patient's body as a response to the pathogens in house dust. It is a quantitative allergen-specific IgE antibody test that is required to be used with a more clinical assessment to comprehensively manage allergic diseases and symptoms.

What is a house dust allergy?

It is a reaction against the harmful substances released by plants, animals, or insects inside a house which can be identified through an allergen-specific IgE antibody test. Any interaction with the pathogens alerts the immune system in the human body causing inflammatory responses, including sneezing, coughing, etc.

What are the different house dust agents that can cause allergies?

Dust carries a variety of components inside a house. The most common allergy-causing agents found in the dust are: Dead skin cells Pet hair Mould Pollen Cockroaches Dust mites  Fabric fibres Rodent allergens

How can you limit the house dust allergies’ pathogens?

The practical tips to reduce pathogens' presence include: Using a HEPA filter in the vacuum cleaner. Keeping the toilets and kitchen spaces free of moulds. Wearing a mask while cleaning the house. Weekly sheet washing in hot water.  Ensuring clutter-free organisation to avoid dust collection Minimising air-drying of the laundry.

What symptoms require a medical recommendation for an allergen-specific IgE antibody test?

The common symptoms requiring house dust allergy diagnosis consist of:  Runny nose Recurrent mild fever Itchy, watery, or red eyes Nasal congestion  Uncomfortable post-congestion nasal dripping Facial pressure  Swollen and bluish skin under the eyes Scratchy roof of the mouth or nose  Difficulty in breathing Chest compression  Anaphylactic reaction

What increases the chances of getting a dust allergy?

A patient is more likely to have house dust allergies if: They have a family history of dust or other allergies They are constantly exposed to a huge amount of dust  They are a young adult of age less than 5