Immunoglobulin E

What is the Immunoglobulin E (IgE) test?

The Immunoglobulin E (IgE) test measures the level of IgE antibodies in the blood. IgE is a type of antibody involved in allergic and hypersensitivity reactions, playing a central role in conditions such as hay fever, asthma, food allergies and eczema.

When the immune system overreacts to typically harmless substances (allergens), IgE antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. This leads to common allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, rashes and breathing difficulties.

Total IgE testing provides an overview of allergic tendency, rather than identifying a specific allergen.

Why do I need an Immunoglobulin E test?

Elevated IgE levels can indicate allergic disease or immune hypersensitivity. Testing helps determine whether symptoms are likely allergy-related and guides further investigations.

You may need an IgE test if you:

• Have suspected allergies
• Experience recurrent allergic reactions
• Have asthma or eczema
• Have chronic rhinitis or sinus symptoms
• Have unexplained skin rashes or itching
• Are being assessed before specific allergy testing
• Have parasitic infection risk

Symptoms commonly associated with high IgE include:

• Sneezing and nasal congestion
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Skin rashes or hives
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Digestive symptoms related to food reactions

Benefits of the Immunoglobulin E test

• Screens for allergic tendency
  Indicates likelihood of allergy involvement.
• Supports allergy investigations
  Helps decide on further allergen-specific testing.
• Useful in asthma and eczema assessment
  Commonly elevated in allergic conditions.
• Clinically recognised immune marker
  Used in allergy and immunology care.
• Assists in unexplained symptom evaluation
  Provides immune context for symptoms.
• Simple blood test
  No exposure to allergens required.
• Useful in parasitic infection assessment
  IgE may rise in certain infections.
• Supports long-term allergy monitoring
  Can track immune hypersensitivity over time.

Step by step – how the test works

You can access Immunoglobulin E testing UK-wide through two options:

1. Clinic appointment
   Attend your nearest UK clinic, where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample.
2. At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
   A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.

Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory, and results are delivered securely.

Your results explained

Low IgE levels

Usually not clinically significant and often seen in non-allergic individuals.

Typical UK reference range:

• < 25 IU/mL

Normal IgE levels

Suggest no significant allergic tendency, though specific allergies may still be present.

Typical UK reference range:

• 25–100 IU/mL

High IgE levels

Indicate increased allergic sensitivity or immune activation.

Typical UK reference range:

• > 100 IU/mL

Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and clinical context.