Understanding the Gluten IgE Level blood test

The Gluten IgE Level blood test measures specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies produced by the immune system in response to gluten proteins. Elevated IgE levels indicate allergic sensitisation, meaning the immune system reacts abnormally to gluten exposure.

This test specifically assesses IgE-mediated (immediate) allergy, which is different from coeliac disease and non-coeliac gluten sensitivity. A true gluten allergy is relatively uncommon but can cause rapid symptoms after ingestion.

The test is performed using a simple blood sample and does not require gluten consumption, making it safe for individuals who experience significant reactions.

When a Gluten IgE Level blood test is recommended

This test is recommended when symptoms suggest a true food allergy to gluten, particularly when reactions occur shortly after eating gluten-containing foods.

It is important to distinguish gluten allergy from coeliac disease, as management and implications differ significantly.

Testing may be appropriate if you:

• Develop hives, itching, or swelling after eating gluten
• Experience lip, mouth, or throat swelling after wheat products
• Have gastrointestinal symptoms immediately after gluten exposure
• Experience wheezing, coughing, or breathing difficulty after eating gluten
• Have a history of food-related allergic reactions
• Need clarification before dietary restriction or reintroduction
• Are undergoing broader food allergy testing
• Have symptoms inconsistent with coeliac disease

Benefits of the Gluten IgE Level test

• Identifies IgE-mediated gluten allergy
  Detects true allergic sensitisation.
• Differentiates allergy from coeliac disease
  Supports accurate diagnosis and management.
• Safe testing without gluten exposure
  No oral food challenge required.
• Supports informed dietary decisions
  Helps guide gluten avoidance or further testing.
• Useful in complex allergy presentations
  Clarifies unclear food reactions.
• Helps assess immediate-type allergic reactions
  Relevant for rapid-onset symptoms.
• Simple blood test with no preparation required
  No fasting or special preparation needed.
• Provides clinical clarity and reassurance
  Reduces uncertainty around food triggers.

How the test is carried out

We offer two convenient UK-wide testing options:

Clinic-based blood testing

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• A healthcare professional collects a blood sample
• The sample is analysed in a certified laboratory
• Results are issued once testing is complete

Home or hotel blood collection (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home, workplace, or hotel
• Blood is collected at a time convenient for you
• No clinic visit required
• Available nationwide across the UK

Both options provide the same laboratory accuracy and clinical reliability.

Understanding your Gluten IgE Level results

Low or undetectable IgE levels

Low or undetectable gluten-specific IgE suggests no evidence of IgE-mediated gluten allergy.

Typical UK reference range:

• Negative: < 0.35 kU/L

Symptoms may be due to non-allergic causes such as gluten sensitivity or coeliac disease.

Moderate IgE levels

Moderate IgE levels indicate sensitisation, which may or may not cause symptoms.

Typical UK reference range:

• Low–moderate sensitisation: 0.35 – 3.5 kU/L

Clinical history is essential for interpretation.

High IgE levels

High IgE levels indicate significant allergic sensitisation and a higher likelihood of clinical allergy.

Typical UK reference range:

• High sensitisation: > 3.5 kU/L

Further allergy assessment may be recommended.