Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is the antibody primarily responsible for allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, food and drug allergies, as well as atopic reactions such as latex allergies. Upon inhalation or ingestion of the allergen, IgE contacts with and activates the respiratory and gastrointestinal mast cells and causes the secretion of histamine in the body. Immunoglobulin E is usually less than 0.1% of the body's immunoglobulins.
The possibility of finding elevated IgE levels in the serum of a patient with an allergic disease depends on the number of different allergens to which the patient is sensitized. However, even normal serum IgE levels do not exclude the possibility of allergic disease. Normal serum IgE levels may be present in some patients with allergic disease, especially if there is a sensitivity to a very small number of allergens.
What Do Pathological Values Mean?
- Increase: Alcohol intake (moderate or high), asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, eczema, food and (some) drug allergies, allergic rhinitis, IgE myeloma, latex allergy, blastomycosis, parasitic infections, pemphigoid, nodular periarteritis, postoperative (initial phase), sinusitis, visceral leishmaniasis, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome. Medications and supplements: gold compounds, herbs or natural remedies that include garlic or Echinacea.
- Decrease: Advanced carcinoma, alcoholic (abstinence), agammaglobulinemia, ataxia telangiectasia, IgE deficiency. Medications and supplements: phenytoin, herbs or natural remedies including peonies, licorice, cinnamon bark, wild ginger [Asarum], schizandra, ginger [Panax].
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
