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Shellfish Allergy Test Panel
Shellfish Allergy Test Panel
Measure immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to four shellfish allergens. This test may help you and your healthcare provider determine whether you have an allergy. Read moreTest details
Sample type:
Blood
Preparation:
You do not need to do anything special to prepare for the sample collection.
Fasting is not required for this test.
What
The Shellfish Allergy Panel measures the level of IgE antibodies produced by your immune system in response to specific shellfish allergens.
Who
Must be 18+ years of age to purchase.
How
Blood
Schedule an appointment, then visit a Quest Diagnostics patient service center location.
About the Test
The Shellfish Allergy Panel measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies produced in the blood in response to certain shellfish allergens. This panel measures immune responses to clam, crab, lobster, and shrimp.
PLEASE NOTE
This test reports the presence of IgE(s) antibodies to shellfish, but the result by itself cannot confirm the diagnosis of an allergy. It is important to follow up with your healthcare provider. 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.
How it works
questhealth.com offers 100+ consumer-initiated Quest Diagnostics lab tests to empower you to have more control over your health journey. Choose from a variety of test types that best suit your needs.
FAQs
According to federal law, fish and shellfish ingredients must be plainly stated on packaged foods and dietary supplements in the United States. Also, the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires that manufacturers disclose on food labels whether a product contains certain types of fish or shellfish.
The management of shellfish allergies is through strict elimination of shellfish. Individuals who are highly allergic may need to avoid touching or smelling shellfish, and should always ensure that they have access to self-administered epinephrine if they have anaphylaxis.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may occur very quickly. However, 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 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.
Yes, it is possible to be allergic to only one type of shellfish. Shellfish are categorized into two groups: crustaceans (such as shrimp, crab, and lobster) and mollusks/bivalves (such as clam, mussel, oyster, and scallop). Many people who are allergic to one shellfish species are also allergic to others in the same classification. For example, if you are allergic to crab, you may also be allergic to lobster. Similarly, if you are allergic to clams, you may also be allergic to mussels.
The allergens in finfish (fish with fins) are different from those found in shellfish, and they are not necessarily related. Most people who have a shellfish allergy are still able to eat finfish. Speak with your healthcare provider before reintroducing foods that you suspect may trigger symptoms.
The results of this test alone should not be used to determine if you have an allergy. It is important to follow up with your healthcare provider. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose or rule out an allergy and help determine next steps.
You may be able to use your FSA or HSA funds to purchase lab tests at questhealth.com. Please review your FSA/HSA plan or check with a tax professional to confirm specific requirements for individual eligibility.