IgEdetectie

IgEdetectie, or IgE detection, refers to methods used to identify immunoglobulin E antibodies with the aim of diagnosing allergic diseases. IgE plays a key role in immediate hypersensitivity, binding allergens and triggering mediator release from mast cells and basophils.

In vivo tests include skin prick tests and intradermal tests, which expose the patient to standardized allergens and observe reactivity. In vitro tests measure serum-specific IgE against individual allergens (specific IgE) or total IgE using assays such as ImmunoCAP or ELISA, including multiplex formats that screen for many allergens simultaneously.

Positive results indicate sensitization but do not alone define clinical allergy. Interpretation requires history, exposure assessment, and sometimes escalation to food challenges or supervised oral tests, particularly for suspected food allergies. Thresholds vary by allergen, age, and assay used; cross-reactivity can complicate results.

Applications include identifying drivers of allergic rhinitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis, and food allergy, guiding avoidance strategies, and informing immunotherapy decisions. In food allergy, IgE tests are often complemented by oral challenges to establish tolerance or allergy.

Advances in IgE testing include component-resolved diagnostics, which assess IgE to individual allergen components, reducing cross-reactivity noise. Multiplex platforms screen many allergens simultaneously, while functional tests such as basophil activation testing provide additional information in specialized centers. Limitations include variability, false positives or negatives, and the need to interpret results alongside clinical history.