Angioedema Testing
View All TestsWhat Is Angioedema?
Angioedema is a condition characterised by deep swelling beneath the skin, most commonly affecting the lips, eyelids, face, tongue, and throat. It occurs when fluid leaks from blood vessels into the deeper layers of skin tissue, and can sometimes accompany urticaria (hives).
Angioedema can have several causes, including allergic reactions (IgE-mediated), medication side effects (particularly ACE inhibitors), and hereditary angioedema (a rare genetic condition). Identifying the underlying cause is important for appropriate management.
Allergy blood testing can help investigate whether IgE-mediated sensitisation may be contributing to angioedema episodes. If you experience swelling of the throat or difficulty breathing, seek urgent medical care immediately.
How Testing Works
Choose Your Test
Select from our range of allergy blood tests and book a convenient time at our South Kensington clinic. No GP referral needed.
Nurse Blood Draw
A qualified nurse takes a small blood sample at our clinic. The appointment is quick and straightforward.
Get Your Results
Results are sent directly to you, typically within a few working days. Share them with your GP or specialist to guide your next steps.
Recommended Tests for Angioedema Investigation
ALEX² Allergy Test (Venous)
Allergy Profile 1 (Food & Inhalants)
Eosinophil Cationic Protein
Histamine Releasing Urticaria Test
Total IgE
Urticaria Test (Histamine Releasing)
Why Choose a Diagnostic-Only Clinic?
Unlike clinics that provide both testing and treatment, our nurse-led service focuses solely on accurate diagnostic testing. Because we don't offer treatments or prescriptions, there is no commercial incentive to recommend unnecessary tests — just honest, impartial results you can trust.
Nurse-Led & Impartial
Our qualified nurses collect your sample — we don't prescribe, treat, or have any reason to upsell.
Results You Own
Your results are sent directly to you. Take them to your GP or a specialist to discuss what's best for your situation.
You Stay in Control
Understand your allergy profile, then decide with your healthcare professional what steps to take next.
Related Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Can allergy testing help identify what causes my angioedema?
If your angioedema is IgE-mediated (allergic), blood testing can help identify specific triggers such as food allergens, insect venom, or environmental allergens. However, not all angioedema is allergic in nature — your GP can help determine the most appropriate investigation pathway.
When should I seek urgent medical care for angioedema?
If you experience swelling of the tongue, throat, or airways, or if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek urgent medical care immediately by calling 999. Angioedema affecting the airways can be a medical emergency.
Do I need a GP referral for allergy testing?
No. You can book directly with our clinic without a GP referral. Simply choose your test and select a convenient appointment time. If you're unsure which test is right for your symptoms, our team can help guide your selection.
Do I need to stop taking antihistamines before a blood test?
No. Unlike skin prick testing, IgE blood tests are not affected by antihistamines or other allergy medications. You can continue taking your regular medications before your appointment.
What should I do with my results?
As a diagnostic-only clinic, we provide results directly to you. We recommend sharing them with your GP or specialist for clinical interpretation and to discuss any further investigations or management plans.
Investigate Potential Angioedema Triggers
Book a blood test at our South Kensington clinic
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