Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation is required.
- Turnaround: 3-5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
The Codfish Allergy IgE Blood Test measures IgE antibody levels in your blood to codfish (F003-IgE Codfish). IgE antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to specific proteins it views as harmful.
This is a single-allergen test. It looks only at codfish (also known as cod) and does not measure other fish, shellfish, or foods. A result reflects IgE antibody levels and is not, on its own, a confirmed food allergy.
Benefits
- Measures IgE antibody levels specific to codfish.
- Uses a simple blood sample.
- Requires no special preparation.
- Provides results online in 3-5 business days.
- Gives you information to review with your healthcare provider.
Who Is This Test For?
- You have experienced symptoms after eating codfish or other seafood.
- You have had tingling around the mouth, swelling, itching, or hives.
- You have had abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea after eating seafood.
- You have had congestion, wheezing, or lightheadedness after a seafood meal.
- You want allergy information about codfish to discuss with your provider.
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What does this test measure, and how is it different from other food allergy tests?
It looks for IgE antibodies to codfish only. The test does not measure other antibody classes, and it does not cover other fish, shellfish, or foods. Because its scope is limited to one allergen, it does not provide a broader food allergy assessment.
2. Who should consider this test, and when?
Anyone who has had symptoms after eating seafood may find this test relevant. Food-related symptoms most often appear within two hours of eating, and frequently within minutes. In some rare cases, a reaction can be delayed by four to six hours or longer. If you experience signs of anaphylaxis, such as a swollen throat, trouble breathing, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention.
3. Do I need to fast or prepare for this test?
No special preparation is required.
4. How quickly will I get results?
Expect results in 3-5 business days. Results may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
5. How should I interpret my results, and what should I do if they are abnormal?
A result shows the level of IgE antibodies to codfish in your blood. It cannot confirm a clinical food allergy by itself, and it does not predict how severe a reaction might be. Interpretation also depends on your symptoms and medical history. If your result is outside the reference range, review it with a qualified healthcare provider, who can advise on next steps.
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.
Cross-Reactivity
Cross-reactivity may occur when the immune system recognizes similar proteins in different foods or substances. This test measures only IgE antibodies to codfish, and it does not test for any of the items listed below. These examples are not exhaustive, and they are possible considerations rather than confirmed allergies. Being cross-reactive does not mean you will react to another item. Depending on your history, symptoms, or your healthcare provider's guidance, related allergen testing may be worth discussing.
Other finned fish (such as haddock, pollock, salmon, herring, or mackerel): Parvalbumin, the major fish allergen, is similar across many species, so some people with a codfish allergy may also react to other fish.
Cartilaginous fish (such as sharks and rays): Their parvalbumins differ from those of bony fish, so cross-reactivity with codfish appears less common, though it has been reported in some people.
Shellfish (such as shrimp, crab, and lobster):Fish and shellfish allergens are generally different proteins, so cross-reactivity is not typical, but some people are allergic to both separately.
