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Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies are specialised proteins in the blood that play a key role in allergic diseses. These proteins are produced by the immune system when it interacts with common allergens such as certain foods, mold, dust mites, pollen, parasites. Allergic inflammation manifests clinically as asthma, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, rhinoconjunctivitis, allergic skin inflammation and food allergy.
When should you get this test
The doctor may order an IgE blood test if an individual exhibits symptoms such as coming in contact with allergens. Symtoms that someone is having an allergy include coughing, belly pain, vomiting, a stuffy nose, trouble breathing, a scratchy throat, itchy eyes, or swelling of the face or throat.
This test is only suggested in specific situations. For instance, this test may be recommended if an individual displays signs of an allergic reaction, lung fungal infection and an immunological problem. If someone is already diagnosed with asthama triggered by allergies, then IgE test is recommended. It also helps in evaluating how the treatment is working for certain ashtmas. Moreover, it is also suggested for patients receiving anti-IgE therapy like omalizumab.
Types of IgE blood tests
There are two types of allergy blood tests:
Total IgE test: It determines the levels of total IgE antibodies in the blood. It serves as a general screening for allergic conditions, infections or immune system disorders.
Specific IgE test: It targets specific allergens such as pet dander, peanuts, shellfish, pollen, dust mites to find out the precise triggers for allergic reactions.
Food allergy blood test: It is a specialised test that targets common food allergens such as eggs, wheat, milk, wheat, soy, and tree nuts.
Preparations
It is a simple blood test that doesn’t require any special preparation. Only in certain cases, the patients may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking perior to the test. Your healthcare provider must be informed if you are taking antihistamines.
Procedure
For this test a trained phlebotomist will take out a sample from a vein in the arm using a small needle.
What this test helps identify
• Allergic conditions: such as eczema, hay fever and asthma
• Parasitic infections: Elevated IgE levels are seen in infections caused by worms
• Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis: a fungal-related condition that typically affects individuals with asthma or cystic fibrosis.
• Primary immunodeficiency disorders: some inherited conditions where the immune system does not function properly.
Disclaimer: For personalised advice and further information, always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional.
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