Immunoglobulin E
The levels of circulating Immunoglobulin E (IgE) in serum are extremely low compared to the other immunoglobulins. Levels at birth are almost non-detectable but increase with age. IgE has been linked to atopic disease and there is a strong correlation between increased total serum or plasma IgE levels and allergy. The determination of total IgE levels has been useful in the assessment of atopic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, extrinsic asthma, urticaria, and atopic eczema. Patients with pulmonary aspergillosis, parasitic infestations, and some immunodeficiencies have been found to have increased amounts of IgE.
