ALLERGY, CELERY (AJMODA)

The Allergy, Celery (Ajmoda) Test is a specialized blood test that measures specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against proteins present in celery (Apium graveolens). This test helps identify allergic sensitization to celery and supports the diagnosis of food allergy, oral allergy syndrome, and IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reactions.

Celery, commonly known as Ajmoda, is widely used in salads, soups, curries, sauces, seasonings, and herbal preparations. While celery is highly nutritious, it is recognized as a significant food allergen in susceptible individuals. Allergic reactions may occur after consuming raw or cooked celery and, in some cases, after exposure to celery spices or seeds.

Celery allergy is often associated with Pollen-Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS), particularly in individuals sensitized to birch pollen or mugwort pollen. In sensitized individuals, the immune system mistakenly identifies celery proteins as harmful substances and produces specific IgE antibodies. Subsequent exposure triggers histamine release and inflammatory responses, leading to allergic symptoms.

The Celery (Ajmoda) Allergy Test helps physicians identify celery-related allergies and supports personalized dietary recommendations and allergy management.

Benefits of the Test

• Detects celery-specific IgE antibodies
• Helps diagnose vegetable allergy and food hypersensitivity
• Supports evaluation of oral allergy syndrome
• Assists in identifying dietary triggers
• Helps prevent allergic reactions
• Requires only a blood sample
• Supports personalized allergy management

Why Doctors Recommend This Test

Doctors may recommend this test for:

• Mouth or throat itching after eating celery
• Lip, tongue, or facial swelling
• Hives or skin rash after meals
• Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Wheezing or breathing difficulty
• Suspected food allergy
• History of pollen allergies
• Recurrent unexplained allergic reactions

Preparation Before Test

Sample Required

• Peripheral venous blood sample

Preparation Guidelines

• No fasting is required
• Antihistamines generally do not interfere with blood IgE testing
• Inform your physician about food allergies and pollen allergy history
• Follow laboratory instructions before sample collection

Reporting Time

Results are generally available within 3–7 working days, depending on laboratory methodology.

Who Should Take This Test?

• Individuals experiencing symptoms after consuming celery
• Patients with suspected vegetable allergy
• Individuals with oral allergy syndrome
• Patients with pollen-food allergy syndrome
• Children and adults undergoing food allergy evaluation

Clinical Significance

Elevated celery-specific IgE levels may indicate:

• Celery Allergy
• Vegetable Allergy
• Oral Allergy Syndrome
• Pollen-Food Allergy Syndrome
• IgE-Mediated Food Allergy

Common symptoms may include:

• Mouth or throat itching
• Tingling sensation in the lips or tongue
• Hives and skin rash
• Facial swelling
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis

The presence of celery-specific IgE antibodies indicates sensitization and should always be interpreted together with clinical symptoms and dietary history.