Basic Lab ¬ Immediate Hypersensitivity Allergic Reactions - Type I - IgE

Approximately 20% of the population has allergies to food or inhalants that show symptoms immediately. The reactions occur because of the release of an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which is the body's way of attacking the allergen. IgE releases histamine and other inflammation causing chemicals and thus, the following reactions may occur:

• runny nose or watery eyes
• difficulty breathing due to constriction of airways
• redness and swelling
• anaphylaxis: an acute allergic reaction that causes severe swelling and low blood pressure. Can be fatal.