Immunoglobulin E
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Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is an antibody from the gamma class of globulin blood proteins. It is the least abundant of the antibodies and is found in plasma, cerebrospinal fluid and tissues.
Its role in disease:
- It mediates type 1 hypersensitivity and hence plays a prominent role in allergy, asthma, eczema, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis and the feared anaphylaxis.
- It is often elevated in patients with parasitic infections.
Like all immunoglobulins, it is secreted by plasma cells. IgE adheres to mast cells on a dedicated receptor (FcεRI). Contact of IgE with an epitope leads to activation and degranulation of the mast cell.