Clinical Information

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is one of the 5 classes of immunoglobulins and is defined by the presence of the epsilon heavy chain. It is the most recently described immunoglobulin, having first been identified in 1966. IgE exists as a monomer and is present in the circulation at very low concentrations, approximately 300-fold lower than that of IgG. The physiologic role of IgE is not well characterized, although it is thought to be involved in defense against parasites, specifically helminths.

The function of IgE is distinct from other immunoglobulins in that it induces activation of mast cells and basophils through the cell-surface receptor Fc epsilon RI. Fc epsilon RI is a high-affinity receptor specific for IgE present at a high density on tissue-resident mast cells and basophils. Because of this high-affinity interaction, almost all IgE produced by B cells is bound to mast cells or basophils, which explains the low concentration present in circulation. Cross-linking of the Fc epsilon RI-bound IgE leads to cellular activation, resulting in immediate release of preformed granular components (histamine and tryptase) and subsequent production of lipid mediators (prostaglandins and leukotrienes) and cytokines (interleukin-4 and interleukin-5).

Elevated concentrations of IgE may occur in the context of allergic disease. However, increases in the amount of circulating IgE can also be found in various other diseases, including primary immunodeficiencies, infections, inflammatory diseases, and malignancies. Total IgE measurements have limited utility for diagnostic evaluation of patients with suspected allergic disease. In this scenario, testing for the presence of allergen-specific IgE may provide more information.

Clinical manifestations of allergic disease result from activation of mast cells and basophils, which occurs when Fc epsilon RI-bound IgE antibodies interact with allergen.

In vitro serum testing for specific IgE antibodies may provide an indication of the immune response to an allergen that may be associated with allergic disease.

The allergens chosen for testing often depend upon the age of the patient, history of allergen exposure, season of the year, and clinical manifestations. Sensitization to inhalant allergens (dust mites, mold, and pollen inhalants) primarily occurs in older children, adolescents, and adults, and usually manifests as respiratory disease (rhinitis and asthma).