Insect Sting Allergy Testing
View All TestsWhat Is Insect Sting Allergy?
Insect sting allergy (hymenoptera venom allergy) is an IgE-mediated allergic response to venom proteins injected by stinging insects — primarily honeybees and wasps in the UK. While local swelling at a sting site is a normal response, systemic reactions (affecting areas beyond the sting site) may indicate true venom allergy.
Severe sting reactions, including angioedema and anaphylaxis, can be life-threatening. Component testing can identify whether sensitisation is to species-specific venom markers (such as Api m 1 for bee or Ves v 5 for wasp) or cross-reactive components (such as CCDs), which is important for guiding specialist management.
If you have experienced a systemic reaction to an insect sting, seek urgent medical advice from your GP or allergist. Always carry your prescribed adrenaline auto-injector if you have one.
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.
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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
Should I be tested after a large local reaction?
Large local reactions (extensive swelling around the sting site) carry a small risk of systemic reaction with future stings. Your GP or allergist can advise whether testing is appropriate based on your individual history.
Can testing distinguish between bee and wasp allergy?
Yes. Component testing can identify species-specific markers (Api m 1 for honeybee, Ves v 5 for wasp) and distinguish these from cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCDs) that can cause false-positive results to both venoms.
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. For insect sting allergy, we strongly recommend specialist interpretation. Venom immunotherapy (desensitisation) is available through NHS allergy clinics for confirmed venom allergy with systemic reactions.
Investigate Insect Sting Sensitisation
Book a blood test at our South Kensington clinic
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