IgE, otherwise known as Immunoglobulin E, is an antibody cell released by the immune system when an allergic reaction takes place either through foods or inhaled particles. The IgE number indicates allergies may be present.
The results of an IgE test indicate to what degree the body reacts to various types of foods or particles and other allergies. A low score does not necessarily indicate a food is safe, and a high or medium score indicates concern.
IgE reactions to allergies occur swiftly--anywhere between minutes or hours after the allergen enters the system. IgE reactions are typically easy to detect because of their swift response.
IgE reactions to allergies are commonly untreatable and will remain in the patient for life. They primarily affect the skin, lungs, and digestive tract.
All inhalant allergies are IgE reactions. Inhalant allergies are also difficult to detect without specifically testing for them. Common inhalant allergies are pollens, animal dander, dust mites and molds.
Foods not eaten two or three weeks prior to an allergy test may not provoke a reaction because there are no allergens to react to. The IgE test is also not infallible--it is just a “snap shot” of a person’s allergies and reactions.
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
Normal IgE Levels
IgE, short for immunoglobulin E, is a type of antibody in the immune system that is released to help combat foreign substances...
What Is Food Panel Testing?
Food panel testing is used to determine which food allergies and sensitivities you have. A blood sample is drawn and then tested...
What Does a High TSH Level Mean?
Thyroid-stimulating hormone or TSH is released by the pituitary gland and activates the thyroid gland, which in turn releases two other hormones,...
Blood Sugar Levels & What They Mean
Blood sugar levels change for every individual at different phases of the day. Your blood sugar level is typically its lowest in...
What Are IgE Levels?
IgE plays a major role in allergies and asthma. People who have many allergies will have elevated IgE levels, and this creates...
How to Interpret MPV Blood Test Results
Blood work contains many markers that help indicate underlying health issues. MPV represents the mean platelet volume; platelets vary in size, with...
How to Lower a High IgE
IgE stands for immunoglobulin E, a type of antibody that acts on cells in the mucus membranes, lungs and often the skin...
What Do IGE Class Levels Mean?
IgE class levels provide an indication of the severity of a suspected allergy. For a patient exhibiting symptoms of an allergic reaction,...