OVERVIEW:
What is the IgE lab test?
An IgE lab test is a blood test that measures the level of immunoglobin M present in the blood.
Why is the IgE lab test done?
An IgE lab test is done in order to:
- Evaluate an individual’s immune system status,
- Detect an allergic infection,
- Diagnose a parasitic infection.
What does an IgE lab test measure?
An IgE lab test measures the level of immunoglobulin E in the blood. Immunoglobulins are proteins that play a vital role in the body’s immune system. IgE is associated with allergies, allergic diseases, and with parasitic infections. Normally found in small amounts in the blood.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no known risks associated with this test.
How should I prepare for this test?
This test does not require any special preparation.
How will this test feel?
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others may feel only a prick or stinging sensation.
What happens during an immunoglobulins blood test?
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube. This usually takes less than five minutes.
How Is an IgE Test Done?
A health professional will clean the skin, put an elastic band (tourniquet) above the area to get the veins to swell with blood, insert a needle into a vein (usually in the arm inside of the elbow or on the back of the hand), pull the blood sample into a vial or syringe, and take off the elastic band and remove the needle from the vein.
The normal level of IgE in a healthy adult is 15-300 UI/mL.
An IgE lab test is done in order to:
- Evaluate an individual’s immune system status,
- Detect an allergic infection.
- Diagnose a parasitic infection.
