Common Ragweed, W1

Common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) is one of the most potent allergenic plants. Ragweed pollen triggers immune reactions, manifested as sneezing, runny nose, itching in the eyes and nose, watery eyes, and in predisposed patients, bronchial asthma. The W1 allergen is used in clinical and laboratory diagnostics to detect sensitization to ragweed pollen.

Indications

• Suspected allergic reaction to ragweed pollen
• Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Bronchial asthma associated with hay fever
• Need to precisely determine the cause of allergic symptoms

Procedure

• The allergen is used for skin tests (prick test) or laboratory 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