Blood Test: Allergen-Specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE)

What Is a Blood Test?

By taking and testing a small sample of a person’s blood, doctors can check for many kinds of diseases and conditions. Blood tests help doctors check how the body’s organs are working and see if medical treatments are helpful.

To help your child get ready for a blood test, find out if they need to fast (not eat or drink) or should stop taking medicines before the test. Explain what to expect during the test. If your child is anxious about it, work together on ways to stay calm.

What Is an Allergen-Specific Immunoglobulin E Test?

An allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) test measures the levels of different IgE antibodies. Antibodies (also called immunoglobulins) are proteins the immune system makes to protect the body from bacteria, viruses, and allergens. The blood usually has small amounts of IgE antibodies. It has higher amounts if the body overreacts to allergens.

IgE antibodies are different depending on what they react to. An allergen-specific IgE test can show what the body is reacting to.

Why Are IgE Tests Done?

An allergen-specific IgE test may be done to look for some kinds of allergies. These include types of food, animal dander, pollen, mold, medicine, dust mites, latex, or insect venom.

What if I Have Questions?

If you have questions about the allergen-specific IgE test or what the test results mean, talk to your doctor.