The Immunoglobulin E (IgE) test measures the amount of IgE antibodies in the blood. IgE plays a key role in allergic reactions, triggering the release of histamine and other chemicals when the body encounters allergens such as pollen, dust, or certain foods. Elevated IgE levels can indicate allergic conditions like hay fever, asthma, or eczema, and may also occur in some parasitic infections. This test helps identify potential allergic triggers and supports the diagnosis of allergy-related disorders.
Experiencing unexplained allergic reactions, asthma symptoms, or want to assess your immune system's tendency toward allergic responses?
Overview
Your immune system has a built-in alarm system called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) – think of it as your body's overzealous security guard that sometimes sounds the alarm for harmless visitors like pollen, pet dander, or certain foods. This test measures how much of this "alarm protein" is circulating in your blood, giving you insight into whether your mysterious symptoms like persistent sneezing, unexplained rashes, or breathing difficulties might actually be your immune system overreacting to everyday substances.
While everyone has some IgE in their system, people with allergies typically have much higher levels, and when these antibodies encounter their triggers, they set off a chain reaction that releases histamine and other inflammatory chemicals – causing everything from itchy eyes and hives to more serious reactions. If your results show elevated IgE levels, it confirms that allergies are likely behind your symptoms rather than other conditions, helping you and your doctor decide whether to dig deeper with specific allergy testing to pinpoint your exact triggers so you can finally get the relief you've been searching for.
Reviewed by Dr. Vu Tran Bloody Good’s Chief Medical Officer
Symptoms
You may benefit from this test if you experience:
Skin rashes after eating certain foods
Hives or welts that come and go
Chronic stuffy or blocked nose
Multiple food sensitivities
Chronic skin itching without visible rash
Wheezing or whistling sound when breathing
Cough that's worse at night
Persistent dry cough
Asthma attacks or episodes
Sinus pressure or facial pain
Skin reactions to environmental factors
Reactions to cleaning products
Purpose
Essential for individuals with suspected allergies, asthma, unexplained allergic symptoms, or anyone needing evaluation of immune system hypersensitivity and allergic tendencies.
How to prepare
No special preparation required. Inform healthcare provider of all medications, especially antihistamines, as they may affect interpretation but typically don't need to be discontinued for this test.
Understanding results
Results show total IgE levels compared to age-appropriate normal ranges. Elevated levels suggest allergic tendencies, while very high levels may indicate parasitic infections or immune disorders requiring further investigation.
After the test
Address elevated IgE through allergy evaluation, specific allergen testing, environmental modifications, and appropriate allergy treatments. Work with allergists or immunologists for comprehensive allergy management and treatment planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Elevated IgE typically indicates allergic tendencies or hypersensitivity reactions, suggesting that your immune system is overreacting to environmental or food allergens, though very high levels may indicate parasitic infections.
Yes, some people with allergies may have normal total IgE levels, particularly those with localized allergies or non-IgE mediated reactions, which is why specific allergen testing may still be needed.
Total IgE measures overall allergic tendency, while specific IgE testing identifies reactions to particular allergens like specific foods, pollens, or environmental triggers.
Some medications, particularly corticosteroids, may lower IgE levels, while others may not significantly affect results. Antihistamines typically don't affect IgE levels but may be discontinued before skin testing.
Extremely elevated IgE may indicate parasitic infections, certain immune deficiencies, atopic dermatitis, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, or rare conditions like hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome.
Monitoring frequency depends on symptoms and treatment - initial testing for diagnosis, then periodic monitoring to assess treatment effectiveness or if symptoms change significantly.
We want you to feel bloody good—inside and out. Regular testing isn’t just about checking your current health; it helps you spot abnormal values you might not know about.
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Book your referral
Choose the testing that suits your goals. After ordering, you will receive your referral by email.
2
Collect your sample
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3
Receive your results
View your lab results and receive a personalised review from the secure Bloody Good platform.
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