IMMUNOGLOBULIN E

Overview

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is one of the 5 classes of immunoglobulins and is defined by the presence of the epsilon heavy chain. .IgE exists as a monomer and is present in circulation at very low concentrations, approximately 300-fold lower than that of IgG. The physiologic role of IgE is not well characterized, although it is thought to be involved in defense against parasites, specifically helminthes. For patients with an established diagnosis of allergic disease, measurement of total IgE is necessary for identification of candidates for omalizumab (anti-IgE) therapy and for determination of proper dosing. In addition to specific patient demographics and clinical presentations, candidates for omalizumab must have total IgE concentrations between 30 and 700 KU/L.