This test detects IgE antibodies which are often raised in response to allergic reactions. It can sometimes help confirm an allergy when symptoms are present.
Allergy blood tests often produce false-positive results, indicating an allergy that may not actually exist. Therefore, we recommend keeping a diary of possible allergens you’ve been exposed to in the hours prior to the onset of symptoms. Sharing this with our doctors allows us to give you the most reliable interpretation.
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What's in the test?
Immunity
Immunoglobulin E
Learn more
Immunoglobulins or antibodies, play an important role in the immune system and help fight against harmful bacteria and viruses in the body. There are five classes of antibodies and several subclasses. In those that have an allergy, their immune system overreacts to a harmless allergen (such as food, grass or animal dander) by producing IgE. This reaction usually causes irritation to the nose, lungs, throat and skin. The allergen-specific IgE antibody test is used to check for an allergy to a specific allergen. It measures the amount of IgE antibody in the blood targeted for a suspected allergen.
How to prepare for your test
Do not take biotin supplements for two days before this test, discuss this with your doctor if it is prescribed. Medications that affect the immune system may reduce IgE levels. These include antihistamines, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants. Don’t stop these medications without first consulting your doctor.
Test limitations
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FAQs
What can I learn from an IgE blood test?
An IgE blood tests gives insights into your immune system’s responses, particularly in relation to allergies. It can help you identify allergies to foods, pets, pollen, and other common allergens. This test is most useful for people with persistent allergy symptoms because levels of IgE often fall when an allergen is removed. This test can’t establish the cause of an allergy, only show that your body is having an allergic response.
What are immunoglobulins?
Immunoglobulins, or antibodies, are proteins made by the immune system to defend against infections and allergens. There are five main types of immunoglobulins (Ig). In people with an allergy, their immune system overreacts to a harmless allergen (such as food, grass, or animal dander) by producing IgE. This reaction usually causes symptoms like hives, a runny nose, or itchy eyes.
What does it mean if my IgE levels are high?
Raised IgE levels often indicate an allergy, especially if you have typical symptoms of an allergy to a common trigger. However, not everyone with a raised result will have a physical allergic reaction when exposed to that substance. There are many other causes of a raised IgE result, including atopic conditions (such as eczema and asthma), parasitic infections, HIV infection, and other immune conditions.
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