TOTAL IMMUNOGLOBULIN IGE

The Total Immunoglobulin E (IgE) test is a simple blood test which detects the amount of Immuno-suppressed IgE Antibodies that are present in the human body. The IgE is the remaining type of five subclasses of immunoglobulins, which are produced by the immune system during infections for defence. High levels of IgE are usually related with allergic conditions, as well as asthma and parasitic infections.  

The Total IgE test works by capturing the IgE antibodies present in the blood, which is available at certain specialized laboratories. After the process is completed, the results are declared a few days later. A blood sample is collected from a minor cut on the vein on the forearm and transported to the laboratory.  

The Total IgE test measures the amount of IgE antibodies from a sample of blood. These results may suggest systemic allergic reactions or some chronic conditions like asthma and parasitic infections. 

The test results are typically expressed in units of nano grams per millilitre (ng/mL).  

The Total IgE test is usually taken when an individual is believed to be impacted by some type of allergy such as having skin rashes, hives or breathing difficulties, among other things. It may also be done while working up a diagnosis for other medical conditions like asthma, eczema, hives, or even parasitic infections.  

As far as medicine is concerned, the Total IgE test is considered a safe test that can be performed on a patient with minimal associated risks. As is obvious, people suffering from a bleeding disease or people ingesting ‘blood thinner' medications might have to exercise caution before undergoing the test. The test is also likely to miss the diagnosis of non-IgE mediated allergies or intolerances and the presence of a positive test does not mean the person is allergic to certain substances.  

It is known that the Total IgE test is performed to assess the amount of specific IgE antibodies which exist in a person's blood. The following parameters are likely to be assessed for during the test:  

1. Age: Thus, since IgE levels are known to increase with age, test results may have to be graded in relation to age.   

2. Allergic history: Since it is suspected a person suffering from allergies is likely to have higher IgE levels, such patients perhaps have to be tested more often. 

Those who have allergic reactions and develop hives or skin rashes and breathing issues will benefit from the Total IgE test. Also, those who suffer from asthma, eczema and some parasitic infections should get their IgE levels frequently checked. 

The total IgE test is beneficial for the following reasons: 

 1. Comes in handy when diagnosing allergic reactions 

 2. Measurements of IgE mediators among patients with allergies or asthma can be easily conducted using this test. 

 3. Helps identify parasitic infections at an early stage. 

The total IgE test can be used to diagnose the following conditions: 

 1. Allergy (for instance; atopic dermatitis, asthma)  

 2.Parasites (for instance; hook worm, round worm) infections.   

 3. Eczema. 

 4. Asthma.  

When it comes to preparing for the total IgE test, the following steps are generally followed:  

Prerequisites: In relation to triglycerides being high, fasting is not obligatory, yet it is suggested. 

 Eligibility: All age groups should be able to take the test. 

 Procedure for taking the Test: Blood will be drawn from a vein in the arm and then tested in the laboratory. 

Caution before the Test: Precaution for patients with bleeding problems or the ones on anticoagulants should be taken in relation to the test.