Established in 2001, the Allergy Laboratory serves as the national referral centre for allergy diagnostics under the Ministry of Health Malaysia. In 2010, it was restructured to form the Allergy Unit within the Allergy and Immunology Research Centre. Its foundation began with the establishment of a specialised allergy laboratory at the Institute for Medical Research (IMR) and the first dedicated allergy clinic at Hospital Kuala Lumpur.

The unit’s multidisciplinary team works together to advance allergy diagnostics, clinical services, and research innovation. The Allergy Unit conducts broad research on allergic diseases, with a special focus on seafood allergy. Research encompasses allergen discovery, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, management, and modelling of allergic diseases. As a pioneer in allergen characterisation, production, and application, the unit has developed local allergen extracts for skin prick testing (SPT) and is advancing them toward commercialisation. These initiatives strengthen national capacity in allergy care, improve diagnostic accuracy, and support personalised patient management, while collaborative projects with MOH and non MOH agencies (universities and industries) continue to expand knowledge and expertise.

The Allergy Unit offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic services, combining serological and cellular-based assays to provide a holistic understanding of allergic mechanisms. This framework is underpinned by prior research conducted within the unit, ensuring that diagnostic practices are evidence-based and scientifically robust. Serological assays measure total and allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) to detect sensitisation to aeroallergens, foods, and drugs. Advanced cellular assays, including the Basophil Activation Test (BAT) utilises ELISA, flow cytometry and ELISpot which evaluate allergen-induced immune activation and cytokine responses. Biomarkers of mast cell and eosinophil activation provide additional insight into inflammatory pathways. This integrated approach supports the assessment of both IgE-mediated and non–IgE-mediated allergies, enabling clinicians to interpret complex cases and make informed decisions for accurate diagnosis, risk assessment, and personalised management.