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Total IgE (Immunoglobulin E) Level

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

This test measures the amount of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) in your blood. IgE is a type of antibody that plays a role in allergic reactions and responses to parasites.

Quick summary

["IgE helps identify allergies or immune reactions that may affect your health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61334-9
Short code
Dog Epith IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Dog Epith IgE/IgE total %
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 (Immunoglobulin E) is a protein produced by your immune system in response to allergens, parasites, or other triggers. Elevated levels can indicate allergies, asthma, or certain immune disorders.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test to diagnose allergies, evaluate asthma symptoms, check for parasitic infections, or assess immune system function in conditions like chronic urticaria or certain autoimmune diseases.

How Is the Test Performed?

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

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to standard reference ranges, though exact values can vary by lab. High IgE levels may suggest allergies, asthma, or parasitic infections, while low levels might indicate a reduced immune response.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: IgE plays a critical role in allergic reactions and immune defense. Elevated IgE is often linked to conditions like hay fever, eczema, or allergic asthma, while abnormal low levels could signal immune deficiencies or other systemic issues.

Short name

IgE Total

Frequently asked questions

What causes high IgE levels?
High IgE levels are commonly associated with allergies (e.g., to pollen, dust, or foods), asthma, parasitic infections, or certain autoimmune conditions. Stress, chronic inflammation, or genetic factors may also play a role.
What causes low IgE levels?
Low IgE levels may occur in people with weakened immune systems, certain genetic disorders (like Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome), or in conditions where the immune system doesn’t produce IgE effectively. Rarely, it could be due to certain medications.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will determine how often to repeat this test, especially if you have ongoing allergies, asthma, or immune-related conditions.
  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