CCD (Cross-reactive Carbohydrate Determinants)

CCDs, or Cross-reactive Carbohydrate Determinants, are sugar molecules on many proteins that can cause false positives in allergy tests by reacting with IgE antibodies, even in the absence of a true allergy.

CCDs can lead to misleading allergy test results, showing sensitivities where none may exist. Recognizing and accounting for CCD reactions is essential for accurate allergy diagnosis.

Acknowledging CCDs helps avoid unnecessary dietary restrictions and anxiety by clarifying which test results indicate real allergies and which are due to these carbohydrate determinants.

Yes, by using specific diagnostic approaches that distinguish between true allergens and CCDs, healthcare providers can minimize false positives, providing a clearer understanding of a patient’s allergies.

No, reactions to CCDs are not true allergic reactions to specific proteins but rather to the carbohydrate structures, not causing typical allergy symptoms.