Treatments

ALEX² Molecular Allergy Blood Testing in Leicester

A Comprehensive Allergy Blood Test for Children and Adults

ALEX² (Allergy Explorer) is one of the most advanced molecular allergy tests available at The Health Suite Leicester, analysing up to 300 allergens and allergen components from a single blood sample. It provides detailed insights into sensitisation patterns and cross-reactive proteins, helping build a clearer picture of complex or multi-allergen symptoms.

What the ALEX² Test Includes

  • A single blood sample taken onsite
  • Analysis of up to 300 allergen extracts and components
  • Total IgE and specific IgE reporting
  • Assessment of cross-reactivity markers (including CCD)
  • A detailed laboratory report sent to your clinician

No follow-up consultation is included with the test. Interpretation requires a clinician and can be booked separately if needed.

When is ALEX² Useful?

ALEX² is recommended when:

  • Multiple allergies are suspected
  • Skin prick testing results need further clarification
  • The child has eczema, asthma or hay fever that is difficult to control
  • Reactions occur without a clear trigger
  • There is suspected pollen–food syndrome
  • Nuts, seeds or legumes cause uncertain reactions
  • Previous tests showed broad sensitisation patterns

It is suitable for children and adults.

ALEX² and Skin Prick Testing: How They Work Together

ALEX² does not replace skin prick testing. Skin prick testing is typically the first-line assessment because:

  • It provides immediate results
  • It is highly reliable for many common allergens
  • It is performed during the consultation itself

ALEX² adds molecular detail, which is helpful when:

  • Allergen profiles are complex
  • Many potential foods are involved
  • Cross-reactivity needs exploring
  • The child cannot undergo skin prick testing

Both tests complement each other and are often used in combination for the most accurate picture.

What the ALEX² Test Does NOT Diagnose

ALEX² identifies IgE-mediated allergy sensitisation. It does not diagnose:

  • Food intolerances
  • Lactose intolerance
  • Coeliac disease
  • Non-IgE-mediated allergies (e.g., delayed gut reactions)

A clinician will advise if additional testing is needed.

Refer to our ‘Preparing for Your Blood Test’ information before your appointment at The Health Suite.

This page describes the ALEX² test only. A clinical consultation is not included. If you are booking ALEX² for a child without a previous assessment at The Health Suite, a paediatric allergy consultation is required before testing can be arranged.

Why choose The Health Suite for ALEX² Molecular Allergy Blood Testing?

  • Advanced, Cutting-Edge Testing

    We provide ALEX² molecular allergy testing, one of the most sophisticated tests available, analysing up to 300 allergens and allergen components from a single blood sample. This helps identify complex or multiple allergy triggers that standard testing may miss.

  • Expert Clinical Guidance

    Our paediatric and adult allergy specialists ensure the test is clinically appropriate, select the right allergen panel, and interpret results accurately. Families receive detailed insights into sensitisation patterns and cross-reactivity, supporting precise management decisions.

  • Comprehensive Support for Complex Allergies

    ALEX² is ideal for children and adults with multiple suspected allergies, eczema, asthma, or unclear triggers. The Health Suite provides optional follow-up consultations to translate results into personalised, actionable care plans that improve safety, well-being, and quality of life.

How ALEX² Works

  1. Pre-Assessment Requirement

    Before booking ALEX² directly for a child, an initial paediatric allergy consultation at The Health Suite is required. This ensures:

    • Testing is clinically appropriate
    • The correct panel is selected
    • Alternative or complementary tests (such as skin prick testing) are not more suitable
  2. Blood Sample Collection

    A simple blood test is performed by our clinical team.

  3. Laboratory Analysis

    Your sample is processed using ALEX² microarray technology, examining allergen extracts and molecular components.

  4. Comprehensive Report

    Your clinician receives:

    • Total IgE
    • Specific IgE
    • Extract-level data
    • Component-level data
    • Cross-reactive patterns
    • Interpretation notes from the laboratory

    This report is designed for clinician interpretation.

  5. Optional Follow-Up Consultation

    If you would like support in understanding the results or developing a management plan, a follow-up consultation can be arranged separately.

FAQ

Common Q&A about ALEX² Molecular Allergy Blood Testing

Checklist

Symptom checker

  • Do you have persistent allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or runny nose?

    These may be signs of environmental allergies. ALEX² testing helps identify specific triggers across a wide panel of allergens using a single blood sample.

  • Are skin rashes, hives, or eczema flares linked to certain exposures?

    Complex or chronic skin reactions can be driven by multiple allergens. ALEX² provides detailed insight into specific IgE sensitivities to guide personalised management.

  • Do you experience digestive symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea after eating?

    Food‑related allergic reactions can be difficult to pinpoint. This advanced molecular blood test screens many food allergens and cross‑reactive proteins at once.

  • Does breathing worsen with seasonal or pet exposure?

    Symptoms such as wheezing, coughing or shortness of breath can be linked to allergic sensitisation. ALEX² maps key respiratory allergens in one test.

  • Have you had unclear or mixed allergy test results in the past?

    Standard tests may miss cross‑reactive or molecular allergy patterns. ALEX² expands sensitivity detection and improves allergen identification.

  • Are symptoms affecting daily life, school, or activity levels?

    Ongoing allergic symptoms can impact quality of life. Detailed molecular allergy profiling helps personalise avoidance strategies and treatments.

Related treatments

What we treat

  • Comprehensive allergy profiling

    Detailed IgE analysis against ~300 allergens, including pollen, dust mites, food, pets, moulds and insect venoms.

  • Food allergy sensitisation

    Identification of specific food triggers and molecular components to inform safe diets.

  • Environmental allergies

    Testing for inhalant allergens such as pollens, moulds and animal dander to support tailored management.

  • Cross‑reactivity analysis

    Molecular testing helps distinguish true allergen sensitivities from cross‑reactive responses.

  • Complex or multi‑sensitised cases

    Ideal for patients with multiple symptoms or unclear results from traditional tests.

  • many more

    Our clinicians manage a broad spectrum of conditions, and individual assessment allows us to tailor care beyond the examples listed. We encourage you to book a consultation to discuss your symptoms and appropriate treatment options.

Explore more options for allergy and intolerance testing.

Food Sensitivity Tests

Identify Food Sensitivities with Expert Testing at The Health Suite Leicester – Enhance Your Health with Personalised Insights

Clinicians

Meet our ALEX² Molecular Allergy Blood Testing Clinicians

ALEX² Molecular Allergy Blood Testing

Treatment options and pricing

£450/person

ALEX² Molecular Allergy Test

Advanced ALEX² blood test for children & adults. Detects up to 300 allergens for precise allergy insights and personalised management plans.

Bookings & Enquiries

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