An IgE allergy test (specific IgE) can help identify allergies to specific substances like pollen, pet dander, or foods. The evidence for using specific IgE in allergy diagnosis is strong (human-strong), especially when combined with clinical history and skin tests. However, a positive IgE result does not automatically mean clinical allergy – asymptomatic sensitization is possible. Total IgE is non-specific and not suitable for pinpointing allergens. Consumer tests (e.g., MyBody-X) often lack validation and clinical correlation; results should be reviewed by an allergist. Caveat: false positives and false negatives can occur. An IgE test alone is insufficient for allergy diagnosis – it is one piece of the diagnostic puzzle.
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