Clinical Significance
Ficus Species (k81) IgE - Ficus benjamina (Fb) is a tropical non-flowering plant used ornamentally in homes and public places such as offices and hospitals. The allergens are located in the sap of the plant, as well as in dust collected from leaf surfaces and on the floor, where the allergens may persist of several months after removal of the plant. The main route for sensitization is likely inhalation of airborne dust emanating from the leaves of the plant. Non-atopic patients have been reported to develop allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, contact urticaria and asthma caused by Fb. A frequent association between sensitization to Ficus species and natural rubber latex from Hevea brasiliensis has been attributed to cross-reacting IgE antibodies.
Preferred Specimen(s)
0.3 mL serum
Transport Container
Serum Separator Tube (SST®)
Transport Temperature
Room temperature
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 14 days
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days