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North West London Pathology > Tests > Immunoglobulin E, IgE Total

Immunoglobulin E, IgE Total

Category Immunology
Test background

This test measures total IgE levels in the blood.
Raised IgE levels may be found in atopic disease (allergic rhinitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA)), parasitic diseases, HIV infection, cystic fibrosis, vasculitis, IgE myeloma and some rare inborn errors of immunity.

Specific IgE levels can be raised when total IgE is within the normal range and therefore the measurement of total IgE in isolation is not a suitable screen for allergy. The ratio of specific IgE/total IgE has been used to aid diagnosis and management of allergic patients. IgE ratios may be especially significant in those with low (<20 kU/L) and very high total IgE (Pascal M, et al. Clin Transl Allergy. 2021 Aug;11(7):e12052). Total IgE levels are correlated with disease severity in ABPA. This test is performed by fluoroenzymeimmunoassay (Immunocap) on Phadia

Clinical Indications

Classification of atopic disease (asthma, allergic rhinitis)
Diagnosis of ABPA
Selecting candidates for and monitoring anti-IgE therapy

Reference range
Adults (including >11yrs) 0-120 kU/L
>6Y – 11Y 0-63 kU/L
>2Y – 6Y 0-52 kU/L
>3M – 2Y 0-29 kU/L
>14D – 3M 0-11 kU/L
Newborn – 14D 0-5 kU/L

Paediatric ranges taken from the Protein Reference Unit (PRU) Handbook of Clinical Immunology 9th Ed. Adult range validated in house.

Ranges are currently under review.
Sample & container required Serum (rust top RST or yellow top tube)
Sample volume 5-10 mL blood (1 mL serum)
Turnaround time 14 days