Testing for Shellfish Allergy: Skin Prick, IgE and Reading the Results
Tests can give clues, but judging allergy still needs to be combined with real reactions to eating.
Common methods
- Skin prick test: a small amount of allergen extract is placed on the skin of the forearm, and the wheal and redness are observed
- Specific IgE test: a blood sample is taken to measure the level of antibodies against shrimp, crab, shellfish and so on
- Component testing: distinguishes different allergenic proteins to help assess risk features
- Food challenge test: carried out in a medical setting according to standards, and is an important basis for judging
How to understand the results
A positive test only shows that sensitisation is possible, and does not mean symptoms will definitely appear; a negative result also cannot completely rule out allergy. The results need to be judged together with reactions after past eating, the timing of symptom onset and the severity.
When to see a doctor
Bring symptom records and a timeline of eating, and explain whether a whole-body reaction has ever occurred and whether you are taking any medicines that affect testing. Whether to reintroduce shellfish and when to reassess should be arranged by a doctor based on the individual situation.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's advice for specifics.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.