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Food Allergy Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Screening Test (Serum)

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

This test measures the levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood, which can indicate a potential food allergy. IgE is a type of antibody that the immune system produces in response to certain allergens.

Quick summary

["IgE levels help identify possible food allergies by detecting the body’s immune response to specific triggers."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24131-5
Short code
Deprecated Food Allerg Mix3 IgE Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Food Allerg Mix3 IgE Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
multidisk
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 This Test Measure?

IgE antibodies are part of your immune system’s defense mechanism. When your body encounters an allergen (like certain foods), it may produce IgE to help identify and neutralize it. This test measures the concentration of IgE in your serum, which can help determine if you have an allergic reaction to specific foods.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may recommend this test if you have symptoms like hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or digestive issues after eating certain foods. It can also be used to screen for allergies before starting new foods or medications.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the amount of IgE antibodies present in your serum.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results are typically reported as a numerical value representing IgE concentration. While reference ranges vary by lab, elevated IgE levels may suggest an allergic response to certain foods, though they do not always confirm a specific allergy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: IgE Testing in Food Allergies

Short name

IgE Screening (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Test results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your healthcare provider to discuss the meaning of your results.
Can elevated IgE levels always mean I have a food allergy?
Elevated IgE levels can indicate an allergic reaction, but they do not definitively confirm a food allergy. Other tests, such as skin prick tests or elimination diets, may be needed for a full evaluation.
What should I do if my IgE test is positive?
If your IgE test suggests a possible food allergy, consult your doctor to explore further testing or management strategies, such as dietary adjustments or allergy treatments.
  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