Total IgE
Description
< 158 IU/ml
Clinical significance
- Immunoglobulin E(IgE) is an antibody that is produced by the body’s immune system in response to a perceived threat. lmmunoglobulin E (lgE) is a trace protein in serum and normally accounts for less than 0.001% of total serum immunoglobulins.
- Total lgE levels may vary due to a variety of different factors, including genetic disposition and allergen exposure. Many allergies are mediated by lgE immunoglobulins which act as point of contact between the allergen and specialized cells.
- High affinity lgE specific receptors are found on the surface membranes of mast cells and basophils. Once lgE has been bound by these receptors, it plays a key role in the generation of immediate hypersensitivity reactions.
- During an initial exposure, an allergic person produces an IgE specifically directed against that allergen. IgE binds to specialised white blood cells, resulting in the release of Histamine. Each time a person is exposed to an allergen, IgE is produced, increasing to levels that can trigger an allergic reaction and in some cases to life threatening anaphylaxis.
- IgE has been linked to atopic disease and there is a strong correlation between increased IgE and asthma. Measurement of Total IgE is of value in early detection and diagnosis of allergy.
When to get tested
Elevated level
Allergic disorders
Asthma
Allergic Rhinitis
Inhalant allergy
Atopic Rhinitis or Sinusitis
Atopic Dermatitis
Urticaria
Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Drug Allergy
Food allergy
Parasitic Infections
Ascariasis
Visceral Larva Migrans
Toxocara
Capillariasis
Echinococcosis
Hookworm
Amebiasis
Immunologic disorders
Hyper-lgE, Recurrent pyoderma (Job-Buckley Syndrome)
Thymic dysplasia or deficiency
Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome
Pemphigoid
Periarteritis nodosa
Hypereosinophilic syndrome
Neoplasm ( lgE Myeloma)
Decreased level
- Congenital hypogammaglobulinemia
- Acquired hypogammaglobulinemia
- Sex Linked hypogammaglobulinemia
Profile
ALL TEST
Turn your phone into a full-featured Ayurveda clinic
Reference library, prescription studio, classical texts and everyday productivity tools — all in one app. Try Bhishak with a trial subscription; unlock the full experience once you’re in.