IgE (Immunoglobulin E) is a type of antibody which is produced by the immune system. Normally, IgE helps to fight with infections. However, in some people, IgE reacts to harmless substances (like dust, pollen, or food), causing allergic reactions. The IgE blood test measures the amount of IgE in your blood. It may be a total IgE test or specific IgE test (to identify particular allergens).
Doctors perform IgE test to:
Diagnose conditions like:
No not necessarily, IgE may also be elevated in parasitic infections, some immune disorders, or chronic lung conditions like ABPA. Clinical symptoms are essential for interpretation.
Yes. Some people have normal total IgE but show elevated specific IgE to certain allergens, and that’s why targeted allergy testing is important.
It’s a routine blood test with minimal risk. You might feel slight discomfort or bruising at the needle site.
Your doctor will evaluate the underlying cause such as an allergy or ABPA and may recommend further tests, avoidance strategies, or anti-allergic treatment like antihistamines or steroids.