Understanding Lab Tests for Cashew Nut Allergy
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
A cashew nut allergy is an immune system reaction to proteins found in cashews. When someone with this allergy consumes cashews, their immune system mistakenly identifies the cashew proteins as harmful and produces antibodies to fight them. Blood testing can detect these specific antibodies to confirm the allergy.
Recommended Test
Cashew Nut (f202) IgG
This test measures IgG antibodies specific to cashew nut proteins in the blood. The presence of these antibodies indicates that your immune system has mounted a response to cashew proteins, confirming a cashew nut allergy. This testing is essential for identifying the specific trigger of allergic symptoms, which can range from mild reactions like itching and hives to severe responses including anaphylaxis.
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Diagnosing Cashew Nut Allergy
While symptoms like itching, swelling, hives, or digestive issues after consuming cashews may suggest an allergy, a definitive diagnosis requires laboratory testing. Blood tests can identify specific antibodies that the immune system produces in response to cashew proteins, providing clear evidence of an allergic reaction.
Understanding Your Results
A positive result indicates the presence of cashew-specific antibodies, confirming an allergic sensitivity. This information helps healthcare providers develop an appropriate management plan, which typically includes avoiding cashews and cashew-containing products, and may include prescribing emergency medications like epinephrine for severe reactions.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of food allergies.
