Question 1

What is Tomato allergy?

Accepted Answer

Tomato allergy is an immune system reaction that occurs when your body mistakenly identifies proteins in tomatoes as harmful substances. It is caused by specific proteins in tomatoes, primarily Lyc e 1, Lyc e 2, and Lyc e 3, which trigger IgG and IgE antibody production. The Food Specific IgG Allergy (Adult) Panel is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures tomato-specific IgG antibodies that indicate immune reactions.

Question 2

What causes tomato allergy?

Accepted Answer

Tomato allergy is caused by your immune system reacting to specific proteins found in tomatoes, including Lyc e 1 (profilin), Lyc e 2 (beta-fructofuranosidase), and Lyc e 3 (lipid transfer protein). When you consume tomatoes or tomato-based products, these proteins trigger your immune system to produce antibodies—primarily IgG and IgE—that identify the proteins as threats. This immune response leads to the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergic symptoms ranging from mild skin reactions to severe systemic responses.

Question 3

What is the best test for tomato allergy?

Accepted Answer

The Food Specific IgG Allergy (Adult) Panel is the most important test for tomato allergy because it detects elevated levels of tomato-specific IgG antibodies (f25) that indicate an immune reaction to tomato proteins. This comprehensive blood test measures your body's antibody response to tomatoes along with other common food allergens, providing objective evidence of an allergic reaction. The test is particularly valuable when symptoms are unclear or when multiple food sensitivities are suspected, helping you identify trigger foods and develop an effective dietary management plan.

Question 4

When should I get tested for tomato allergy?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience symptoms like hives, skin rashes, itching, swelling of the lips or tongue, digestive issues, or respiratory problems after eating tomatoes or tomato-based products like pasta sauce, ketchup, or pizza. Testing is also important if you have a history of other food allergies or if you notice symptoms that worsen during tomato season when you consume more fresh tomatoes. Getting tested early helps you confirm the diagnosis and avoid potentially severe allergic reactions.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of tomato allergy?

Accepted Answer

Tomato allergy symptoms include skin reactions like hives, rashes, itching, and eczema flare-ups. You might experience swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, along with digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Respiratory symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, tomato allergy can trigger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention and causes symptoms like rapid pulse, dizziness, severe breathing difficulty, and loss of consciousness.

Question 6

Who is at risk for tomato allergy?

Accepted Answer

People with existing food allergies or a family history of allergies are at higher risk for developing tomato allergy. Those with oral allergy syndrome, particularly individuals allergic to birch or grass pollen, often develop cross-reactive allergies to tomatoes due to similar protein structures. Children with eczema or asthma have increased susceptibility to food allergies including tomatoes. People with latex allergies may also experience tomato allergy due to cross-reactivity between latex proteins and tomato proteins, a condition known as latex-fruit syndrome.

Question 7

What happens if tomato allergy is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If tomato allergy is left untreated and you continue consuming tomatoes, your allergic reactions may become more severe over time. Repeated exposure can lead to chronic inflammation, persistent skin conditions like eczema, ongoing digestive problems, and increased risk of developing additional food sensitivities. Without proper diagnosis and management, you remain at risk for anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction. Undiagnosed tomato allergy can also contribute to nutritional deficiencies if you avoid multiple foods without proper guidance, and chronic inflammation may impact your overall health and quality of life.

Question 8

Can tomato allergy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tomato allergy can be diagnosed with a blood test that measures specific IgG and IgE antibodies to tomato proteins. The Food Specific IgG Allergy (Adult) Panel detects elevated levels of tomato-specific IgG antibodies, providing objective evidence of an immune reaction. Blood testing is particularly useful because it is safe (no risk of triggering a severe allergic reaction during testing), can test for multiple allergens simultaneously, and provides quantifiable results that help track your immune response over time. Blood tests complement clinical history and can be done without stopping antihistamine medications, unlike skin prick tests.

Question 9

How is tomato allergy treated?

Accepted Answer

Tomato allergy is treated primarily through strict avoidance of tomatoes and tomato-containing products, including fresh tomatoes, cooked tomatoes, tomato sauce, ketchup, salsa, and processed foods with tomato ingredients. Your doctor may prescribe antihistamines for mild reactions and an epinephrine auto-injector for severe allergies or risk of anaphylaxis. Reading food labels carefully is essential since tomatoes appear in many unexpected products. Working with an allergist and registered dietitian helps ensure you maintain proper nutrition while avoiding trigger foods and may help identify cross-reactive foods like potatoes, eggplants, and peppers that share similar proteins.

Question 10

How can I prevent tomato allergy?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot prevent developing tomato allergy if you are genetically predisposed, you can prevent allergic reactions by strictly avoiding tomatoes and tomato-based products. Read ingredient labels carefully and watch for tomato in various forms including tomato paste, puree, concentrate, and lycopene. When dining out, inform restaurant staff about your allergy and ask about ingredients in sauces and dishes. Carry an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed and wear a medical alert bracelet. For those with oral allergy syndrome, cooking tomatoes may reduce allergic reactions since heat denatures some proteins, though this does not work for everyone with tomato allergy.

Question 11

What can I do at home for tomato allergy?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can manage tomato allergy by creating a tomato-free kitchen and finding suitable substitutes in your recipes. Replace tomato sauce with alternatives like roasted red pepper sauce, beet-based sauces, or cream-based sauces. Keep antihistamines on hand for accidental mild exposures and ensure your epinephrine auto-injector is easily accessible and not expired. Maintain a food diary to track any reactions and identify hidden sources of tomato in your diet. Consider taking quercetin and vitamin C supplements, which have natural antihistamine properties, though always consult your healthcare provider before starting supplements. Educate family members about your allergy and establish safe food preparation practices.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Tomato Allergy Blood Test

What is Tomato allergy?

What causes tomato allergy?

What is the best test for tomato allergy?

When should I get tested for tomato allergy?

References

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