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Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a class of antibody that has been found only in mammals. IgE exists as monomers consisting of two heavy chains (ε chain) and two light chains. IgE's main function is immunity to parasites such as helminths like Schistosoma mansoni, Trichinella spiralis, and Fasciola hepatica. IgE may also be important during immune defense against certain protozoan parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum. IgE also plays an essential role in type I hypersensitivity, which manifests various allergic diseases, such as allergic asthma, most types of sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, food allergy, and some types of chronic urticaria and atopic dermatitis. IgE also plays a pivotal role in allergic conditions, such as anaphylactic reactions to certain drugs, bee stings, and antigen preparations used in specific desensitization immunotherapy.
