Immunoglobulin E associated systemic conditions

Abstract

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) was the last immunoglobulin to be discovered, possibly secondary to its low levels in plasma. Following extensive investigation, its role in the pathogenesis of several diseases, most notably atopic conditions, has become evident. The immunologic pathways related to its synthesis and relation to effector cells is becoming more lucid. This has allowed for the emergence of new medications that target different steps in its activity. In this review, we will summarize some of the most common systemic pathologies in which IgE has a role in their etiology.

Keywords: Immunoglobulin E, Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, Churg Strauss syndrome, drug hypersensitivity, anaphylaxis, hyper IgE syndrome