Silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.), also known as warty birch (Betula verrucosa Ehrh.), is a tree of the birch family (Betulaceae). The test determines sensitization to the Bet v2 profilin protein and Bet v4 polcalcin – the main allergenic components of birch pollen. These proteins have high cross-reactivity with other pollen allergens and plant-based foods, which is important for diagnosing polysensitization.
Bet v2 – profilin protein weighing 13–14.4 kDa, a minor allergenic component of birch pollen, causing allergic reactions in about 10% of patients. Profilin has high cross-reactivity with pollen allergens from grasses, trees, as well as plant-based foods (apple, celery, cherry, nuts, etc.).
Bet v4 – polcalcin protein weighing 9.3 kDa, a minor allergenic component causing reactions in about 20% of patients. Polcalcin also has high cross-reactivity with pollen from other plants, making it an important marker of polysensitization and aiding in the selection of immunotherapy.
FEIA (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay, ImmunoCAP) – quantitative determination.
Please note that the research method and reference values may vary depending on the equipment and test systems used.