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IgE Immunoassay (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood. IgE is linked to allergic reactions and certain immune conditions.

Quick summary

["IgE helps identify allergies or immune responses that may require further evaluation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6043-4
Short code
Deprecated Birch IgE Qn
Synonyms
Deprecated Birch IgE Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does IgE Measure?

IgE antibodies are part of your immune system’s response to allergens like pollen, dust, or certain foods. High levels may suggest allergies, asthma, or other allergic conditions.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like sneezing, itching, skin rashes, or breathing difficulties that could indicate allergies.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure IgE levels using an immunoassay method.

What Are Possible Results?

Results may indicate normal IgE levels, low levels (which could suggest immune deficiency), or elevated levels (which may point to allergies or other conditions).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgE Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated IgE levels?
Elevated IgE levels are commonly linked to allergies, asthma, or other allergic conditions. They may also appear in certain immune disorders or parasitic infections.
What causes low IgE levels?
Low IgE levels can occur in conditions like selective IgA deficiency or certain immune system disorders. Rarely, it may be associated with genetic or congenital immune deficiencies.
Can IgE levels change over time?
Yes, IgE levels can fluctuate depending on exposure to allergens, underlying health conditions, or treatments like allergy medications or immunotherapy.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy