What is Specific IgE?

What Is Specific IgE and How Does It Cause Allergic Reactions?

Allergies can be confusing, frustrating, and sometimes even frightening. Understanding what

happens inside your body is the first step toward regaining control. One key player in allergic

reactions is a special antibody called specific Immunoglobulin E, or specific IgE.

Our immune system is designed to protect us from germs and harmful invaders. However, for people with allergies, specific IgE becomes overactive and starts reacting to things that are normally harmless, like pollen, foods, dust mites, or pet dander. Understanding how this

works can bring clarity, reassurance, and hope.

What Is specific IgE?

Specific IgE is a small but powerful protein made by your immune system. Its job is to

recognize foreign substances and help your body respond to them. In people with allergies, specific IgE becomes overly sensitized. It attaches itself to mast cells and basophils, immune cells loaded with chemicals that can trigger strong reactions.

When these cells are activated, they release substances that cause allergy symptoms. Learning about this process empowers you to understand your symptoms instead of feeling

overwhelmed by them.

Mast Cell

How Does Specific IgE Cause Allergies?

Allergic reactions happen in two main stages:

1. Sensitization — the first exposure

This is when your immune system “learns” to recognize an allergen.

• After exposure to something like peanuts, pet dander, or grass pollen, your body may start producing IgE specific to that allergen.

• These IgE molecules then attach to mast cells in your skin, lungs, nose, and digestive system.

At this stage, you may not feel any symptoms, but your immune system is preparing a

response.

2. Allergic Reaction — future exposures

The next time your body encounters that same allergen:

• It binds to the specific IgE sitting on mast cells.

• This causes the mast cells to “burst” and release chemicals such as histamine.

These chemicals lead to the symptoms many people know all too well:

• Sneezing and a runny nose

• Itchy, watery eyes

• Hives or skin rashes

• Swelling

• Wheezing or coughing

• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain

• In severe cases, anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction

Knowing why these symptoms happen can make them feel less mysterious and help you take better control of your health.

Why is specific IgE Important?

Measuring specific IgE levels helps healthcare providers:

• Identify what you are truly allergic to

• Understand the severity of your sensitization

• Create a treatment plan tailored to your needs

• Prevent dangerous reactions before they happen

This knowledge isn’t just medical information, it’s a tool that helps you protect your health

and live more confidently.

How Can an Allergy Clinic Help?

Allergy clinics offer several ways to measure IgE and understand your allergy profile:

• Skin prick tests (quick, on-the-spot results)

• Blood tests for specific IgE (such as the TAC 300 Comprehensive Test)

• Advanced molecular (component) testing for deeper insights

Each option helps paint a clearer picture of how your immune system responds, empowering

you with knowledge and guidance. Understanding your specific IgE story is the first step toward lasting relief.

The more you know about your body, the better you, and your healthcare team, can navigate allergies with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.