Which antibody type is primarily elevated in allergic reactions?

Which antibody type is primarily elevated in allergic reactions?

• A. IgG
• B. IgM
• C. IgA
• D. IgE

Answer: (D)

The elevation of IgE antibodies is a hallmark of allergic reactions. When an individual is exposed to an allergen—substances that can trigger an allergic response such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods—the immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless substances as threats. In response, it produces IgE antibodies specific to the allergen. These IgE antibodies bind to mast cells and basophils, which are key cells involved in the allergic response. Upon subsequent exposure to the same allergen, the allergen cross-links the IgE on the surface of these cells, leading to their degranulation and the release of various mediators, including histamine. This release triggers symptoms associated with allergies, such as itching, swelling, and bronchoconstriction. Other antibody types, such as IgG, IgM, and IgA, play roles in different aspects of the immune response, such as providing immunity against pathogens (IgG and IgM) and protecting mucosal surfaces (IgA). However, it is specifically IgE that is closely linked to the pathophysiology of allergic reactions, making it the primary antibody type elevated in such cases.

The elevation of IgE antibodies is a hallmark of allergic reactions. When an individual is exposed to an allergen—substances that can trigger an allergic response such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods—the immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless substances as threats. In response, it produces IgE antibodies specific to the allergen.

These IgE antibodies bind to mast cells and basophils, which are key cells involved in the allergic response. Upon subsequent exposure to the same allergen, the allergen cross-links the IgE on the surface of these cells, leading to their degranulation and the release of various mediators, including histamine. This release triggers symptoms associated with allergies, such as itching, swelling, and bronchoconstriction.

Other antibody types, such as IgG, IgM, and IgA, play roles in different aspects of the immune response, such as providing immunity against pathogens (IgG and IgM) and protecting mucosal surfaces (IgA). However, it is specifically IgE that is closely linked to the pathophysiology of allergic reactions, making it the primary antibody type elevated in such cases.