Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a type of antibody. The immune system creates proteins known as antibodies to assist the body in defending itself against potential threats. The body produces several types of antibodies, including IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE, and IgD. Each of these antibodies is specific to an antigen that triggers the immune response. A small amount of immunoglobulin IgE is also present in the blood and plays a role in fighting allergies and parasitic diseases. 
What is an IGE Serum test?

A serum IgE level test is useful for diagnosing various diseases. One of its main applications is allergy diagnosis. Both food and seasonal allergies can be identified using this method. Another application is in diagnosing asthma. Although less common, eczema can also be detected using this test.

Purpose of IGE serum test

The purpose of a serum IgE test is to measure the total amount of IgE antibodies present in an individual's blood. This test can help identify diseases that may lead to allergies and also detect the presence of a parasitic infection.

The IgE test is used for diagnosing certain medical conditions such as:

• Hay fever and asthma
• Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is an allergic response to a specific type of fungal infection in the lungs.
• Inflammation in the skin, lungs, and other organs
• Cancers that are associated with the immune system and certain types of immunological diseases.

It can also be performed to monitor the effectiveness of a treatment, allowing doctors to modify the treatment strategy as needed.

When should one get this IGE serum test?

Usually, only specific situations warrant the use of a total IgE test. A doctor may recommend a total IgE blood test if a patient displays signs of an immunological problem, a parasitic infection, or an allergic reaction to a lung fungal infection. If someone has asthma or experiences allergy symptoms such as a runny or itchy nose, congestion, or sneezing, the doctor may suggest an IgE level blood test. If a person has already been diagnosed with asthma triggered by allergies, the doctor may also advise total IgE testing. In this case, testing can help optimize treatment and prescribe correct dosage for certain asthma medications.

How to prepare for the IGE serum test?

Before an allergy blood test, most people do not need to take any special precautions. In some cases, healthcare providers may ask patients to refrain from eating or drinking before the test. It's important to inform the provider if the patient is taking antihistamines, as they may request the patient to stop using them prior to the allergy blood test.

What happens during the IGE serum test?

A total IgE test requires a blood sample to be taken. This process typically takes place in a medical facility or hospital. One can return to their regular activities after the test. A serum IgE blood test has very few potential side effects. Minor soreness or bruising in the arm is possible, but these should subside soon.

IGE serum test Results

A person is likely to have an allergy if their IgE level exceeds the recommended threshold. However, IgE test results do not specify the exact allergy a person might be experiencing. If a person has a high total IgE level, they are more likely to have one or more allergies. The overall IgE level is influenced by the increase in allergen-specific IgE levels during exposure, followed by a subsequent reduction over time. The IGE blood test normal range may vary depending on the laboratory conducting the test and the specific unit of measurement used.

• Normal Range: The serum IGE test normal range indicates that an individual has no known allergies.
• High IgE Level: If a person's IgE levels are higher than usual, it may indicate allergies to specific foods or allergens.
• Extremely High IgE Level: Occasionally, IgE levels can be abnormally high, suggesting severe allergies that could potentially lead to an immunodeficiency condition.

Conclusion

Allergies can range from being merely irritating to extremely uncomfortable or even hazardous. Fortunately, allergy testing with IgE is readily available, which can help identify the causes of allergies, enabling individuals to adjust their lifestyles to avoid those allergens. 

FAQs

1. What does the immunoglobulin IgE serum test for? 

Ans. The Immunoglobulin IgE Serum Test measures the level of IgE in the blood. It is used to diagnose certain allergic conditions like asthma and hay fever. 

2. Are there any risks associated with IgE serum tests? 

Ans. Blood tests for allergies pose no significant risks. Some individuals may experience minor bleeding, bruising, or pain at the site of the blood draw, but these symptoms typically resolve within a day or two.

3. What are the symptoms of a high IgE level? 

Ans. Elevated IgE levels can result in severe allergic reactions, including persistent sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, skin rashes, shortness of breath, and swelling of the face or throat.

Reference:
https://www.verywellhealth.com/ige-test-overview-6362110
https://www.testing.com/tests/total-ige/#:~:text=During%20a%20total%20IgE%20test,a%20vial%20or%20test%20tube.
https://medlineplus.g