IgErelated

IgE-related refers to conditions and immune responses driven by immunoglobulin E (IgE), a class of antibodies produced by plasma cells in response to allergens or parasite infections. In many people IgE helps protect against helminths, but in others sensitization leads to excessive IgE production and allergic disease. IgE mediates rapid, antibody-driven responses that can affect the skin, airways, and gastrointestinal tract.

Most IgE-related reactions occur when IgE binds to high-affinity Fc epsilon RI receptors on mast cells and basophils. Re-exposure to an allergen cross-links IgE, triggering degranulation and release of mediators such as histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins, which produce symptoms including itching, nasal congestion, wheeze, abdominal pain, and in severe cases anaphylaxis.

Common IgE-mediated diseases include allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, atopic dermatitis, food allergies, urticaria, and anaphylaxis. Some conditions involve non-IgE pathways or mixed mechanisms, so testing focuses on specific IgE and clinical history. Diagnostic methods include patient history, skin prick testing, serum-specific IgE assays, and, in select cases, basophil activation testing.

Management emphasizes avoidance of known allergens when feasible, symptom control with antihistamines or intranasal/inhaled corticosteroids, and emergency treatment with epinephrine for anaphylaxis. Long-term strategies include allergen immunotherapy (subcutaneous or sublingual) and biologic therapies that target IgE (anti-IgE) or related pathways, such as IL-4/IL-13 signaling. Ongoing research seeks improved diagnostics and personalized approaches to IgE-related disease.