The Seafood Allergy Panel measures your immune response to codfish, crab, lobster, salmon, shrimp, and tuna allergens, which may indicate a seafood allergy.
This panel checks your blood for a type of allergy-related antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). When you are exposed to an allergen, your immune system activates the release of too much of the antibody IgE. IgE activation causes the release of a substance called histamine, which causes an allergic reaction.
PLEASE NOTE
This test reports the presence of IgE antibodies to 6 allergens, but the result by itself cannot confirm the presence of an allergy. It’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider or an allergy specialist. They will review your results along with your medical history, signs and symptoms, medications, and any other test results. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose an allergy and prescribe medication if needed.
What is tested?
The Seafood Allergy Test Panel measures the levels of specific IgE antibodies in your blood. These antibodies are an immune response to specific seafood allergens. This panel measures immune responses to codfish, crab, lobster, salmon, shrimp, and tuna allergens, and may indicate a seafood allergy.
A seafood allergy is a common type of food allergy and can cause serious allergic reactions in some people. If someone with a seafood allergy eats or comes across products containing seafood, proteins in their immune system may activate the release of too much of the antibody IgE. IgE activation causes the release of a substance called histamine, which causes an allergic reaction.
Signs & Symptoms
The Seafood Allergy Panel may be helpful in identifying if you have had or currently have an allergic reaction to seafood. If so, you may have any of the following symptoms:
Most allergic reactions occur within minutes, but some may develop hours after exposure. The reaction to these allergens can vary from a stuffy nose to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that can cause itching, hives, and skin rash; swelling of the throat, lips, or tongue; and difficulty breathing, potentially causing the body to go into shock. Anaphylactic shock occurs when a person's blood pressure drops so severely that the body's cells and tissues do not receive enough oxygen. Due to the severity of a possible allergic reaction, it's crucial to work with your healthcare provider to determine an optimal treatment and prevention plan.
Eligibility
You must be 18 years old or older to purchase.
Preparing For Your Test
You do not need to do anything special to prepare for the sample collection. Fasting is not required for this test.
After The Test
When your results are ready, we will send them to you in a clear, easy-to-read report. You will have the option to speak with an independent physician to discuss your results. If your results differ from the expected ranges, you may receive an alert call to inform you.
