ALEX 2.0 is a molecular test that assesses your reaction to nearly 300 allergens and protein components from a single blood sample — from grass and birch pollen, through dust mites and animal dander, to nuts, milk, eggs, and seafood. It's one comprehensive test instead of a series of individual ones.
ALEX 2.0 vs. skin prick tests
Skin prick tests require you to stop taking antihistamines and have healthy skin at the puncture site. ALEX 2.0 is a blood test, so it doesn't have these limitations — you can come in even during pollen season and while undergoing symptomatic treatment.
The key difference is component-resolved diagnostics: the test shows not just a 'peanut allergy,' but the specific protein responsible for the reaction. This helps distinguish cross-reactions from those that can lead to severe symptoms.
Who is this test for?
The test is recommended for recurrent rhinitis and conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, hives, asthma of unknown origin, reactions after eating, and before considering immunotherapy.
We perform it on adults and children — it's particularly helpful for the youngest, where it can be difficult to pinpoint a single suspected allergen.
- Inhalant allergies: pollen, dust mites, moulds, dander
- Food allergies: nuts, milk, eggs, fish, seafood
- Cross-reactions: birch pollen vs. apple or hazelnut
- Qualifying for immunotherapy (desensitisation)
Price and test procedure
The ALEX 2.0 test costs £380. A mandatory £25 service fee is added to every appointment (for blood collection, sample handling, and shipping to the laboratory). The blood draw itself takes just a few minutes, and you don't need to be fasting.
You can find details about the test and our other allergy diagnostics in the catalogue.
What happens after you get your results
The results include a list of allergens with their specific IgE levels and an indication of the components. Based on this, a doctor can plan an elimination diet, symptomatic treatment, or immunotherapy.
It's a good idea to supplement your diagnostics with a full blood count and vitamin D test, as these affect the condition of your immune system. You can book your blood collection appointment here.
