Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (serum)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 3–5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Identify specific shellfish triggers – Test multiple species to pinpoint exact allergens
- Prevent severe reactions – Early detection helps avoid anaphylaxis and emergency visits
- Convenient direct access – Order without physician referral for faster results
- Quantitative results – ImmunoCAP® technology provides precise IgE antibody levels
- Comprehensive screening – Covers both crustaceans and mollusks in one test
- Ongoing monitoring – Track allergy changes over time with repeat testing
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing allergic symptoms after eating shellfish
- People with suspected seafood allergies needing confirmation
- Those with family history of food allergies seeking preventive screening
- Adults wanting to identify specific shellfish triggers for dietary planning
- Anyone needing documentation of shellfish allergies for medical records
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online - No physician referral needed; schedule at your convenience
- Visit a lab - Get a simple blood draw at any participating location
- Receive results - Delivered directly to secure online account within 3-5 days
FAQ
What shellfish does this test check? Crustaceans (shrimp, crab, lobster) and mollusks (clam, oyster, scallop) for comprehensive screening.
How accurate is this blood test? ImmunoCAP® technology offers high sensitivity and specificity for detecting shellfish-specific IgE antibodies.
Can I eat shellfish before the test? Yes, no dietary restrictions are needed. The test measures your immune system's existing antibody response.
Will this replace skin allergy testing? It complements skin tests but may require oral food challenges under medical supervision for definitive diagnosis.
What if I'm allergic to one type of shellfish? Most people allergic to one shellfish are allergic to others, so comprehensive testing helps identify all triggers.
How long do shellfish allergies last? Adult-onset shellfish allergies typically persist lifelong, unlike some childhood food allergies that may resolve.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This diagnostic blood test measures Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to various shellfish allergens. It quantitatively detects your immune system's response to shellfish proteins, helping identify which species trigger allergic reactions. The test covers both crustaceans (crab, lobster, shrimp) and mollusks (clam, oyster, scallop) to provide comprehensive allergy profiling for accurate diagnosis and management (Mayo Clinic 2024).
Who would benefit from this test?
Anyone experiencing allergic symptoms after consuming shellfish should consider this test. It's particularly valuable for individuals with suspected seafood allergies, those needing confirmation of reactions, or people requiring documentation for dietary restrictions. Health-conscious consumers seeking proactive allergy management also benefit from early identification and prevention strategies (AAAAI 2023).
When should I order an Allergen Profile Shellfish Blood Test?
Order this test when experiencing allergic symptoms such as hives, swelling, breathing difficulty, or digestive issues after eating shellfish. Symptoms typically occur within minutes to two hours of ingestion but can be delayed up to six hours. Consider testing for preventive screening if you have family history of food allergies or work in food service environments (Food Allergy Research & Education 2024).
How do I interpret the results?
Results show IgE antibody levels for each shellfish type tested. Elevated levels indicate sensitization and potential allergy risk:
IgE < 0.35 kU/L
- What it means: No sensitization detected
- Typical action: Shellfish likely safe to consume
IgE 0.35–0.70 kU/L
- What it means: Low-level sensitization
- Typical action: Monitor symptoms; consult allergist
IgE 0.71–3.50 kU/L
- What it means: Moderate sensitization
- Typical action: Avoid specific shellfish; carry epinephrine
IgE > 3.50 kU/L
- What it means: High sensitization
- Typical action: Strict avoidance; emergency action plan
Results must be interpreted alongside clinical history and symptoms for accurate diagnosis.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No special preparation is required for this blood test. You don't need to fast or adjust medications beforehand. Continue your normal diet and routine. If you're taking antihistamines, they won't affect blood test results, unlike skin prick tests. Simply stay hydrated and wear clothing that allows easy access to your arm for blood draw.
How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your individual circumstances and allergy management needs:
- Initial diagnosis confirmation – Once for baseline establishment
- Known allergy monitoring – Every 2–3 years or as symptoms change
- Childhood allergies – Every 1–2 years to track potential resolution
- Treatment response evaluation – As recommended by allergist
- Unexplained allergic reactions – Once to identify potential triggers
Why early detection matters
Shellfish allergies affect 1-3% of Americans and often cause severe reactions including anaphylaxis. Early identification enables proactive management, preventing emergency situations and improving quality of life. Prompt diagnosis allows for proper emergency preparedness, dietary planning, and cross-contamination avoidance. Economic benefits include reduced healthcare costs from emergency visits and improved workplace or social participation through confident allergy management (Thermo Fisher Scientific 2023).
Related tests you may consider
IgE Food Allergy Advanced Test, Serum - Mosaic Diagnostics Test Kit— provides broader screening for multiple food allergens beyond shellfish, identifying other potential sensitivities.
Total IgE Test— measures overall allergic tendency, supporting differential diagnosis.
American Cockroach Allergy IgE Test — Distinguishes shellfish allergy from cockroach allergy, important since cross-reactions between shellfish and cockroaches can occur.
