The Shellfish Allergy Panel measures your immune responses to allergens, which may indicate a shellfish allergy. Our Shellfish Allergy Panel measures the level of allergen-specific IgE antibodies produced by your immune system in response to shellfish allergens. IgE antibodies are normally found in small amounts in the blood, but higher amounts may cause signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction. This test detects the presence of high IgE levels in the blood for clams, crabs, lobsters, and shrimp.
PLEASE NOTE
This test reports the presence of IgE(s) antibodies to 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 Shellfish Allergy Test Panel measures the level of specific IgE antibodies produced by the immune system which may activate an allergic reaction to clam, crab, lobster, or shrimp.
IgE antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to detect and eliminate infections, toxins, bacteria, and viruses. Antibodies are normally present in small amounts in your blood; however, an abnormally high level of specific IgE antibodies produced against clam, crab, lobster, or shrimp allergens indicates a shellfish allergy.
When someone with a shellfish allergy eats or encounters products containing a particular protein found in that shellfish, the immune system perceives them as harmful invaders, which may trigger an allergic response. During an allergic reaction, certain white blood cells (called mast cells) are stimulated to release histamine, which increases blood flow to the part of the body affected by the allergen, causing inflammation and associated allergic symptoms.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of shellfish allergy may include:
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
The Shellfish Allergy Panel is for anyone who wants to know if they may have IgE antibodies to clam, crab, lobster, or shrimp. You must be 18 years of age 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.
