Immunoglobulin E (IgE)
The measurement of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in serum is widely used in the diagnosis of allergic reactions and parasitic infections. Many allergies are caused by the immunoglobulins of subclass IgE acting as point of contact between the allergen and specialized cells. Before making any therapeutic determination it is important, however, to know whether the allergic reaction is IgE mediated or non-IgE mediated. Measurement of total IgE in serum sample, along with other supporting diagnostic information, can help to make that determination.