Brome Grass Allergy Test
This page explains the brome grass allergy test, what it measures, and how to arrange it. The brome grass allergy test is a blood test that checks whether your immune system reacts to brome grass, a common grass pollen that can trigger seasonal allergy symptoms. It is usually ordered when someone has ongoing sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, or asthma-like symptoms during grass pollen season.
- Sample type
- blood
- Category
- Allergy
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $49
- Referral
- Not required
The brome grass allergy test is a blood test that checks whether your immune system reacts to brome grass, a common grass pollen that can trigger seasonal allergy symptoms. It is usually ordered when someone has ongoing sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, or asthma-like symptoms during grass pollen season.
What it measures
- Brome grass specific IgE — The main marker; shows whether your blood contains antibodies that recognize brome grass pollen.
- Total IgE — Sometimes measured alongside specific IgE to give context, though it does not identify a specific allergy on its own.
- Other grass-specific IgE — May be tested together to see whether you react to related grasses such as timothy or Bermuda grass.
- Inhalant allergen panel — An optional group of common airborne allergens that can help show whether symptoms are seasonal or year-round.
Who it is for
A primary care clinician, allergist, or immunologist typically orders this test. It is most often used when symptoms follow a seasonal pattern or when skin testing is not practical.
Preparation
No fasting or special preparation is usually required. Tell your clinician about any medications you take, since some drugs can affect allergy testing.
Results and what they mean
Results are reported as a level or class for brome grass specific IgE, often alongside a reference range. A higher result suggests sensitization, but it does not by itself diagnose an allergy or predict how severe symptoms will be. A clinician interprets the result with your history and symptoms. This is general information, not medical advice.
How to order this test
- Choose the test and place a confidential order online.
- Select a certified collection site and pick a time that suits you.
- Have your specimen collected — most draws take only a few minutes.
- Review results in a secure portal, typically within 1–3 days.
Preparation, hours, and pricing vary by site; confirm details directly with the lab before your visit.
Availability by state
Direct-access online ordering for the brome grass allergy test is available in most states. It is currently unavailable in 6 states:
Everywhere else you can order confidentially and collect your sample at a certified site. Browse by state →
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to stop my allergy medication before this test?
Antihistamines generally do not affect blood IgE tests the way they affect skin tests, but check with your clinician about your specific medications.
What does a positive result mean?
It means your blood contains antibodies that recognize brome grass. Your clinician will consider whether this matches your symptoms.
Can this test tell me how bad my allergies will be?
No. The level does not reliably predict symptom severity, so your clinician will interpret it with your history.
Is this test painful?
It uses a standard blood draw, so you may feel a brief pinch when the needle goes in.