Table of Content

Introduction to IgE Total Test

Do you often suffer from allergic reactions and cannot determine the cause? You may need to get your total IgE test done.

Immunoglobulin E or IgE is an antibody released by your immune system in the body’s defense. Substances you may be allergic to trigger the immune system to produce the required antibodies (IgE) to fight the foreign substances. Unfortunately, the antibodies trigger the release of histamine, which further turns into an allergic reaction.

This is why it is important to get the IgE levels tested. The higher the IgE level, the more severe the reaction. The test helps your doctors provide you with the required treatment or suggest further tests if necessary.

You can book an IgE test from Redcliffe Labs and collect your sample from your doorstep.

What Is a Total IgE Test?

A Total IgE test is a blood test that measures the total amount of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood. IgE is an antibody made by the immune system and is commonly linked with allergic reactions, asthma, eczema, and sometimes parasitic infections. 

Doctors may recommend this test if you have symptoms such as frequent sneezing or runny nose, skin rashes, itching, or eczema, wheezing or asthma-like symptoms, food allergy symptoms, or other allergic reactions.

IGE Test Details:

What is the purpose of the Total IgE Test?

Everyone knows how important it is to get tested for allergies, and the total IgE test is the most reliable and accurate. Here are five reasons to make you understand better the purpose of the Total IgE Test:

• Detection of allergens: 

It helps in the determination of allergens triggering the reaction and in further testing and treatment. 

• Determine treatment methods:

It helps doctors with their treatment. It helps them determine if the person is suffering from any allergic reaction or other issues so that they can provide treatment accordingly.

• Screening other conditions:

If the test report does not show any sign of an allergic reaction, it clarifies the situation for the doctors, and they proceed with tests for other conditions.

• Determining inflammation:

This IgE serum test can help determine skin, lung, or other organ-related conditions.

• Progress monitoring:

It helps determine any progress that has happened due to the treatment.

These are the main reasons one should get tested for IgE on the doctor’s recommendation.

Types of IgE Tests: What's the Difference?

IgE tests are blood tests used to help detect allergy-related immune responses. Here are different types of allergy tests: 

• Total IgE Test: A Total IgE test measures the total amount of Immunoglobulin E antibodies present in the blood. It helps indicate whether the immune system is producing higher-than-normal levels of IgE, which may occur in allergies, asthma, eczema, parasitic infections, or other immune-related conditions. 
• Specific IgE Test: A Specific IgE test measures IgE antibodies produced against one particular allergen. For example, separate tests may be done for milk, egg, peanut, dust mite, pollen, mold, or pet dander. This test is more useful when the doctor wants to understand which specific substance may be causing allergy symptoms.
• Allergy Panel Test: An allergy panel is a group of Specific IgE tests done together. Instead of testing one allergen at a time, it tests multiple common allergens in a single blood sample. Common panels may include food allergy, respiratory allergy, pediatric allergy, or regional allergy panels. 
• Component-Resolved IgE Test: A component-resolved IgE test is a more detailed type of allergy blood test. It assesses the IgE response to specific proteins within an allergen, rather than to the whole allergen.

Who Should Consider a Total IgE Test?

A Total IgE test may be recommended for people who have frequent or unusual allergy-like symptoms. These may include- 

• People with frequent sneezing, runny nose, or blocked nose
• People with itchy eyes, skin rashes, hives, or eczema
• People with asthma-like symptoms such as wheezing or breathing difficulty
• People with suspected food, dust, pollen, pet, or mold allergy
• People with repeated allergic reactions without a clear cause
• People with long-term allergic rhinitis or atopic dermatitis
• People suspected of having a parasitic infection
• People advised by a doctor for further allergy evaluation

What Parameters Are Checked in a Total IgE Test?

A Total IgE test checks the total amount of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies present in the blood. The main parameter checked is Total Immunoglobulin E (Total IgE). This measures the overall IgE antibody level in the blood. High Total IgE levels may suggest an allergic tendency, atopic dermatitis, allergic asthma, or, in some cases, a parasitic infection. However, this test does not identify the exact allergen causing symptoms. 

What do the IgE test measures?

IgE test measures the immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood. These antibodies are part of the immune system and are primarily involved in allergic responses. 

The total IgE test measures the blood's quantity of immunoglobulin E (IgE), a type of antibody. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces to help defend against potential threats.

When the body encounters an allergen, it produces IgE antibodies specific to that allergen. These IgE antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.

What Conditions Can Be Diagnosed With a Total IgE Test?

A Total IgE test helps doctors check whether the body has an increased allergy-related immune response. 

Conditions commonly linked with high Total IgE levels include:

• Allergic Rhinitis: High IgE levels may be seen in people with hay fever, sneezing, a runny nose, a blocked nose, itchy eyes, or pollen/dust allergies.
• Allergic Asthma: Total IgE may increase in allergic asthma, especially when breathing problems are triggered by dust, pollen, mold, pet dander, or other allergens.
• Food Allergies: Elevated IgE levels may suggest a food allergy, especially when symptoms such as itching, swelling, rashes, stomach discomfort, or breathing difficulty occur after eating certain foods.
• Eczema or Atopic Dermatitis: People with eczema, chronic itching, dry skin, red patches, or repeated allergic skin reactions may have high Total IgE levels. Very high IgE is often seen in active or severe eczema. 
• Hives or Skin Allergy: Total IgE may be raised in people with urticaria or allergic skin reactions, especially when symptoms include sudden itchy bumps, swelling, or redness.
• Parasitic Infections: Some worm or parasitic infections can increase Total IgE levels because IgE also plays a role in the body's immune response against parasites.
• Rare Immune Disorders: Very high IgE levels may be associated with rare immune conditions, such as Hyper IgE syndrome, especially when a person has recurrent skin or lung infections along with eczema-like symptoms. 

Understanding the Symptoms of Allergies:

There are multiple types of allergies, each with different triggers; it is important to understand and know about the symptoms as they help you understand your triggers. Here are some of the most common symptoms that one can look out for:

• Sneezing
• Dizziness
• Eczema
• Difficulty in Breathing
• Swollen Eyes and Nose
• Rashes and Cracked Skin

Severe Allergies are known to cause a respiratory condition called anaphylaxis, and this condition can be very fatal. It is also important to understand the symptoms of the condition so you can act on it as soon as possible. Here are the symptoms of anaphylaxis one can look out for:

• Loss of consciousness
• Shortness of Breath
• Skin Rashes
• Major Pulse Drop
• Blood Pressure Drop

Understanding the symptoms of any condition helps one better understand the situation, and one can actively participate in finding a solution for it.

Preparation Before a Total IgE Test (Fasting & Guidelines)

No special set of rules must be followed before taking the IgE blood test. However, these are some basic guidelines to be followed:

• You are not required to fast before taking the double marker test, but if your health requires it, talk to your physician about any special dietary requirements.
• If you are pregnant, you might be taking any medication or supplements. It is important to inform your doctor about that as well. You do not need to panic in such situations; if they think there is an issue, they will tell you about the solution as well. 
• It is a blood test, so avoiding any workouts or yoga before taking the test is always recommended.
• It is advised not to smoke or drink alcohol before taking the test because it may alter the test results.

If you follow these basic guidelines before taking the test and keep your physician in the loop, you are ready.

Total IgE Test Procedure (Step-by-Step Process)

The Total IgE test is a simple blood test. It usually takes only 5–10 minutes for the phlebotomist to collect the blood sample. The test is safe, quick, and does not require any complicated procedure.

Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Step 1: The phlebotomist ties an elastic band around your upper arm to make the vein more visible. You may be asked to make a fist so the vein can be located easily.
2. Step 2: The sample collection area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of infection.
3. Step 3: A thin, sterile needle is inserted into the vein, and a small amount of blood is collected in a vial or tube.
4. Step 4: Once the blood is collected, the needle is removed, and a cotton ball or bandage is placed over the puncture site.
5. Step 5: The collected blood sample is sealed, labeled properly, and sent to the laboratory for testing.

You may feel a slight sting during the needle prick. Mild pain, bruising, or soreness at the puncture site can happen and usually goes away within a day or two. However, if the pain becomes severe or lasts longer than two days, you should consult a doctor.

How to Read Total IgE Test Results? (High & Low IgE Levels Explained)

In adults, Total IgE levels are typically 1.5–150 kU/L, but the normal range can vary by age, lab method, and testing system. Always compare your value with the reference range on your own report. 

• Low IgE/Normal IgE: A low Total IgE level usually does not indicate allergy. In most cases, it is not a serious finding if the person has no symptoms. However, very low IgE levels may be associated with immune-related conditions and should be interpreted alongside symptoms, medical history, and other test results.
• High Total IgE Levels: A high Total IgE level may indicate your immune system is reacting strongly. It is commonly seen in people with allergies, asthma, eczema, hay fever, food allergies, or parasitic infections. For example, if your IgE is high and you also have sneezing, watery eyes, skin itching, rashes, or breathing issues, your doctor may suspect an allergy. But to know whether the trigger is dust, pollen, food, pet dander, or mold, you may need a Specific IgE test or allergy panel test.

How to Prevent Allergic Reactions?

Allergic reactions can be life-threatening; knowing about your allergies and trying to avoid them as much as possible is important. Some of the ways you can prevent allergic reactions are:

1. Avoid Allergens:

• Food Allergies: Read food labels carefully, avoid cross-contamination, and be cautious when eating out.
• Environmental Allergies: Stay indoors during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers, and keep windows closed.
• Pet Allergies: Limit exposure to pets, keep pets out of certain rooms, and clean frequently.

2. Medications:

Antihistamines: These can help control symptoms of mild allergies.

Epinephrine Auto-Injectors: Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) is essential for severe allergies.

3. Immunotherapy:

Allergy shots or sublingual tablets can gradually reduce sensitivity to certain allergens over time.

4. Personal Hygiene:

 Wash hands and face frequently, especially after being outdoors or in contact with potential allergens.

 Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities to remove pollen and other allergens.

5. Home Environment:

Use allergen-proof mattresses and pillow covers.

Regularly clean and vacuum to reduce dust mites, mold, and pet dander.

Maintain low indoor humidity to prevent mold growth.

6. Educate and Communicate:

Inform family, friends, and coworkers about your allergies.

Wear a medical alert bracelet if you have severe allergies.

7. Avoid Smoking and Pollutants:

Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke and other pollutants that can exacerbate respiratory allergies.

Implementing these measures can significantly reduce the risk of allergic reactions and help manage symptoms effectively.

Who is At Risk?

Certain conditions make someone more vulnerable to allergies; here are a few things that increase your risk of getting allergies:

• Having a family history of hives, eczema, hay fever, etc. then, you are prone to suffer from allergic reactions and even asthma.
• If you have been diagnosed with asthma or any form of allergy before.
• Children are vulnerable to allergens and need to be more careful around them.

So, if there are any symptoms of an allergic reaction, one should get an IgE Total Test. The test helps in either confirming the diagnosis of allergies or ruling out the possibility so that doctors can provide medication accordingly.

Is there any risk of IgE allergy tests?

There is no or minimal risk of IgE allergy test. However, like any medical procedure, some minimal risks are associated. These are-

• Pain or Discomfort
• Bruising
• Risk of bleeding
• Dizziness or Fainting
• Risk of Infection (Rare)
• False Positives/Negatives

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience severe or prolonged symptoms, such as swelling, redness, or pain at the puncture site.

When Should One Take The IgE Total Test?

The Total IgE test can be done when the person:

• If you experience allergy symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes, swelling, shortness of breath, skin rash, congestion, or sneezing.
• To track and monitor treatment progress and effectiveness
• If a parasitic infection or allergic respiratory disease is suspected.
• In individuals with a family history of allergies.

Treatment for Allergy Test (IgE)

The treatment plan will depend on the type of allergies and how serious your symptoms are-

Avoidance of Allergens

• The most effective way to manage allergies is to avoid exposure to identified allergens.
• Food Allergies: Avoid specific foods like nuts, shellfish, or dairy.
• Environmental Allergies: Reduce exposure to pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander by using air purifiers, cleaning regularly, and staying indoors during high pollen seasons.

The most effective treatment plans for allergies involve avoiding the allergens. Home remedies for mild allergies include-

• Acupuncture
• Butterbur 
• Using an air filter or dehumidifier
• Nasal irrigation
• Vitamin D
• Stinging nettle tea 

Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications may help with allergy system, such as:

Medications

• Antihistamines: Block histamine release to reduce symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine). 
• Decongestants: Relieve nasal congestion (e.g., pseudoephedrine, oxymetazoline). 
• Corticosteroids:
• Nasal Sprays: Manage inflammation in the nasal passages (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone).
• Oral/Topical Steroids: For severe skin or systemic reactions.
• Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists: Used for asthma or allergic rhinitis (e.g., montelukast).
• Epinephrine Auto-Injectors: For emergency treatment of anaphylaxis (e.g., EpiPen).

When to Consult a Doctor

• If symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment.
• If you're considering immunotherapy or other long-term solutions.

Normal Total IgE Test Range & Interpretation

Age-Wise Reference Range for Total IgE

• Within the normal range: this means your IgE levels are not elevated. However, specific IgE testing may be required if symptoms are present. 
• Mildly high IgE: It may suggest a mild allergy if the person has sneezing, itching, rashes, wheezing, or food-related symptoms.
• High IgE: It can be seen in allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema, food allergy, or parasitic infection. 
• Very high IgE: May occur in severe eczema, chronic skin infections, parasitic infections, or rare immune-related disorders. A doctor with symptoms and other test results should interpret it. 

What Affects Total IgE Test Results?

Several factors can affect Total IgE test results, as IgE levels rise when the immune system responds to allergens, infections, or certain inflammatory conditions. Common factors that may affect Total IgE levels include:

• Allergies to Dust, pollen, pet dander, mold, food, or insects can increase IgE levels. People with allergic rhinitis, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or rashes may have elevated IgE levels.
• Asthma and breathing allergies: Allergic asthma can cause high Total IgE levels, especially when symptoms worsen after exposure to dust, pollution, pollen, or seasonal triggers. 
• Eczema or atopic dermatitis: People with chronic eczema, skin itching, redness, or repeated allergic skin reactions may have increased Total IgE levels.
• Parasitic infections: IgE helps the body fight certain parasitic infections, so worm infections or other parasites may raise Total IgE levels.
• Recent allergen exposure: If you were recently exposed to an allergy trigger, such as dust, pollen, food, pet hair, or mold, your IgE level may be higher than usual.
• Age and immune response: Total IgE levels can vary by age. Children may have different reference ranges than adults, so the result should always be compared with the lab's age-specific range.
• Infections and inflammatory conditions: Some infections and immune-related inflammatory conditions may also increase IgE levels. High IgE is not limited to allergies only.
• Medications and treatment history: Allergy medicines, steroids, immunotherapy, or other ongoing treatments may influence the body's allergic response. Always tell your doctor about any medicines you are taking before testing.

Total IgE Test vs Allergy Test: What's the Difference?

A Total IgE test and an allergy test are related but not the same.

Which Test Do You Need?

Doctors may suggest a Total IgE test to assess your overall allergic tendency, especially in cases of asthma, eczema, frequent sneezing, itching, or other allergic symptoms. However, if you need to know the exact trigger, a Specific IgE test or allergy panel is usually more useful.

IgE Test Price At Redcliffe Labs!

If you have frequent allergies, you must get the IgE serum test done. Your doctor may recommend the test for multiple reasons, so it is always advised to get the test done as soon as possible.

The IgE test price at Redcliffe Labs is INR 699. This price varies from lab to lab, but we at Redcliffe Labs try to keep it minimal. You can book your test from our website or download the Redcliffelabs app. You can get your test done from the comfort of your home and get the results online in a stipulated timeframe.