IMMUNOGLOBULIN E 0000542

Chronic urticaria is a common skin disorder affecting 1 to 6% of the general population. It is characterized by repeated occurrence of short-lived cutaneous wheals accompanied by redness and itching. Autoimmune urticaria is defined by the presence of a functional IgG antibody to high-affinity IgE receptor (Fc epsilon RI alpha) or to IgE. These antibodies trigger mast cell and basophil degranulation by the engagement of Fc epsilon receptor. Functional IgG antibody to the receptor has been identified in approximately 30-40% of patients with chronic urticaria, and anti-IgE antibody has been identified in another 5% to 10%. The anti-IgE assay will quantify autoantibodies to IgE which will aid in the diagnosis and management of autoimmune chronic urticaria.