IgE Allergietest: which blood markers matter?

An IgE allergy test primarily measures two blood markers: total IgE and specific IgE antibodies to individual allergens. Total IgE indicates an allergic predisposition but is non-specific—elevated levels can also occur with parasitic infections or certain immune disorders. Specific IgE antibodies (e.g., to pollen, foods, animal dander) are measured using methods like ImmunoCAP and indicate sensitization. Other markers such as eosinophils or tryptase may be relevant in specific contexts but are not part of standard allergy panels. Importantly, a positive IgE result does not automatically mean clinical allergy; results must be correlated with symptoms. False positives and false negatives are possible. The test is a diagnostic aid, not a standalone basis. Evidence for specific IgE testing in IgE-mediated allergies is strong (guideline-based), but the provided context lacks direct sources. Therefore, evidence is rated as 'practice'.