In which situation is IgE found in increased levels?

IgE, or Immunoglobulin E, is primarily associated with allergic reactions and responses to parasites. When an individual is exposed to an allergen, the immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat. As a result, IgE antibodies are produced, leading to increased levels in the bloodstream. These antibodies bind to allergens and are involved in triggering histamine release from mast cells and basophils, resulting in the symptoms associated with allergic reactions such as sneezing, itching, and swelling.

In various other conditions, like viral infections and autoimmune disorders, different types of immunoglobulins or immune responses are primarily involved. For example, viral infections typically elicit an increase in IgG and IgM rather than IgE. Similarly, autoimmune disorders often involve IgG but not typically elevated IgE levels. Chronic inflammation may have various immune mediators, but IgE is not specifically increased in these contexts as it is primarily related to allergies.