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Allergy

Allergy Test – Cow Dander

Allergy

Allergy Test – Cow Dander

This blood test measures IgE antibodies against cow dander (epidermal particles) to detect allergic sensitisation to cattle.

275 SEK

VAT-exempt medical service

  • Results in 5 working days
  • 116 sampling locations
  • No doctor's referral needed
  • Sample: Blood (venous)
  • Laboratory: Synlab
Find a sampling location →

What does this test measure?

Cow dander allergy is caused by proteins found in the skin cells, hair, and saliva of cattle. People who live on farms, work with livestock, or spend time in environments where cows are present can develop an allergic response. This IgE blood test identifies whether your immune system reacts to cow dander proteins, helping to confirm or rule out this allergy.

This test is useful if you experience respiratory or skin symptoms after contact with cows or in environments where cattle are kept, such as farms, barns, or veterinary clinics. It helps distinguish cow dander allergy from other animal or environmental allergies.

What a high value can mean

Elevated IgE levels indicate allergic sensitisation to cow dander. This suggests that your immune system is reacting to cow epidermal proteins, which may cause symptoms like rhinitis, asthma, or skin reactions when in contact with cattle.

What a low value can mean

Low or negative IgE levels make cow dander allergy unlikely. However, symptoms experienced around cattle could be caused by other allergens present in farming environments, such as hay, dust, or mould.

Read more about this marker →

Associated symptoms

  • Sneezing and nasal congestion around cattle
  • Itchy or watery eyes
  • Skin rash or hives after contact with cows
  • Wheezing or breathing difficulties in barns or farms
  • Coughing or chest tightness

Who should consider this test

  • Farmers, veterinarians, or agricultural workers exposed to cattle
  • People who develop respiratory symptoms in farm environments
  • Individuals with known animal allergies who want to check for cow dander sensitivity
  • Children living on farms with recurring allergy symptoms

Before your appointment

No special preparation is required. No fasting needed. Bring your ID to the sampling location. Bring valid ID to your appointment.

  • Bring photo ID to the sampling location.
  • You do not need a doctor's referral — your referral is issued when you order.
  • Tell the staff which test you have ordered if they ask.

How it works

  1. 1

    Order your test

    Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.

  2. 2

    Give your sample

    Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.

  3. 3

    The lab analyses it

    Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.

  4. 4

    Get your results

    Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.

Good to know

Is cow dander allergy the same as cow milk allergy?

No. Cow dander allergy is caused by skin and hair proteins, while cow milk allergy is caused by proteins in milk. They are tested separately and involve different allergens.

Can cow dander allergy develop in adults?

Yes. Allergies can develop at any age, particularly with increased or new exposure to cattle environments.

Will avoiding direct contact with cows prevent symptoms?

Not always. Cow dander particles can become airborne and spread through barns and farm clothing, potentially causing reactions even without direct contact.