Shellfish allergy test

How does a shellfish allergy test work?

Immunoglobulins and antibodies normally help your immune system fight against bacteria and viruses. In some people, however, the immune system may overreact to normally harmless allergens, such as food, and produce immunoglobulin E (IgE), causing irritation to the nose, lungs, throat and skin. This specific IgE antibody test will provide results for your total IgE as well as for Clams, Crab, Crawfish/Crayfish, Lobster, Octopus, Prawns, Shrimp, Scallop and Squid which may cause IgE-related allergies.

How to check shellfish allergy symptoms and what are the testing options?

Shellfish allergy symptoms include hives, itchy or red skin, swollen eyes, itchy or swollen lips, tongue, or throat, wheezing, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or a weak pulse.

Testing options for a shellfish allergy include the skin prick test, blood test, and a review of the patient’s medical history. For the blood test a blood sample is sent to a lab to measure the amount of IgE) antibodies. Blood test results are usually available in 1 or 2 days.

A healthcare professional may perform an oral food challenge to confirm the diagnosis, where the patient will eat small amounts of the food while under observation in a hospital or clinic.

Top tests for shellfish allergies

The most common tests for diagnosing shellfish allergy are the skin prick test and a blood test.

Skin prick test: Your skin will be pricked on your upper back or arm and a drop of shellfish protein will be dropped onto it. A raised bump will appear at the prick site within 15 to 20 minutes if you are allergic to shellfish

Blood test: Blood samples are sent to a lab for testing. Results are usually available in 1 to 2 days.

When should you take a shellfish allergy test?

You should get tested for a shellfish allergy if you experience symptoms after eating shellfish. Symptoms may include hives, vomiting, and lip or facial swelling.

Many people who have an allergy to shellfish can eat mollusks, like clams, oysters, scallops and mussels, but it is always best to speak to an allergist before consuming any type of shellfish.

 FAQs

What tests are used for shellfish allergy?

Tests used for shellfish allergy include the:

• Skin prick test
• Blood test
• Oral food challenge

What to avoid if you have a shellfish allergy?

If you have a shellfish allergy, you should avoid:

• Crustaceans: Crayfish, crab, lobster, shrimp, prawns
• Mollusks: Clams, mussels, oysters, scallops, squid
• Cuttlefish, periwinkle, sea urchin, whelk

Read food labels, avoid seafood restaurants, fish markets and complementary supplements containing fish or shellfish. Carry an Epipen (epinephrine pen) or equivalent in case of an allergic episode.

What should I do if I experience a severe allergic reaction to shellfish?

If you experience a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis to shellfish, you should use your epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) immediately and seek emergency medical care.

Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include shortness of breath, coughing, hives, difficulty breathing and a tightness in your chest or throat. Avoid shellfish and foods containing shellfish if you do experience allergic reactions to shellfish. Also, check ingredients when buying food at the supermarket and let staff know about your allergy if you are eating in a restaurant.

How can I prevent cross-contamination if I have a shellfish allergy?

If you have a shellfish allergy and want to prevent cross-contamination:

• Wash all kitchen utensils with hot soapy water, before using them to prepare any food
• Check food labels
• Avoid seafood restaurants
• Ask about cooking procedures in restaurants
• Avoid places where shellfish are processed