IgE deficiency and prior malignancy: results of the 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)

The role of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in type I hypersensitivity reactions and protection against helminthic parasites is well known.1 However, clinical observations and several epidemiological studies have also suggested a potential association between a history of atopy, total serum IgE level and risk of developing malignancy. 2-5 There are also studies that suggest a role of IgE in cancer immune surveillance, although the exact mechanisms are not completely understood. For instance, IgE  antibodies have been found to be involved in antibody-dependent cytotoxicity against tumor antigens in pancreatic6 and ovarian7 cancers.
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Source Type: research