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IgE (summary and causes of increased and reduced levels)

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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IgE is found mainly in submucosal tissues where it is bound to mast cells and basophils.

The bridging of IgE molecules by antigen stimulates mast cell degranulation, and it is through this mechanism that IgE plays a role in the pathogenesis of immediate allergic anaphylactic reactions.

Causes of increased IgE levels include:

  • atopic diseases e.g. asthma, hay fever, eczema
  • parasitic diseases e.g. ascariasis, visceral larva migrans, hookworm disease, Echnococcus infection, schistosomiasis
  • E-myloma

Causes of reduced IgE levels include:

  • heriditary deficiencies
  • acquired deficiencies
  • ataxia-telangiectasia
  • non-IgE myeloma

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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