Giant Ragweed, W3
Giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida) is a highly allergenic plant, known for causing sensitization in individuals predisposed to hay fever. The plant’s pollen triggers an immune response, manifested as runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, itching in the eyes and nose, and in severe cases, bronchial asthma. The W3 allergen is used in laboratory diagnostics to detect sensitization to ragweed pollen.
Indications
- Suspected allergic reaction to ragweed pollen
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Bronchial asthma potentially linked to ragweed pollen
- Need to precisely determine the cause of allergic symptoms
Procedure
- The allergen is used for skin or laboratory tests (e.g., prick test or IgE analysis)
- The test is performed in a clinic under the supervision of an allergist
- Results help determine the level of sensitization and guide preventive and therapeutic measures
Preparation:
- Discontinue antihistamines 3–5 days before the test
- Do not use local corticosteroids in the nose or eyes 24–48 hours before the procedure
- For skin tests, the area should be clean and dry, without creams or lotions