Alergia na skorupiaki
Etiologia i przyczyny

Alergia na skorupiaki, dotykająca około 2-3% populacji, jest jedną z najczęstszych alergii pokarmowych u dorosłych, charakteryzującą się IgE-zależną reakcją na białka takie jak tropomiozyna, kinaza argininowa czy lekki łańcuch miozyny. Mechanizm patofizjologiczny obejmuje ekspozycję na alergen, produkcję specyficznych przeciwciał IgE, ich wiązanie z komórkami tucznymi i bazofilami oraz uwolnienie mediatorów zapalnych, głównie histaminy, co prowadzi do objawów alergicznych. Czynniki ryzyka to predyspozycje genetyczne, ekspozycja środowiskowa (w tym zawodowa) oraz reakcje krzyżowe z alergenami roztoczy kurzu domowego i karaluchów. Alergia ta często pojawia się w wieku dorosłym, co może być związane z kumulacją ekspozycji, zmianami hormonalnymi i immunologicznymi. Reaktywność krzyżowa występuje głównie w obrębie skorupiaków (Crustacea) oraz między skorupiakami a mięczakami (Mollusca), a także z innymi bezkręgowcami zawierającymi tropomiozynę.

Etiologia alergii na skorupiaki

Alergia na skorupiaki jest jedną z najczęstszych alergii pokarmowych, szczególnie u osób dorosłych. W przeciwieństwie do wielu innych alergii pokarmowych, które rozwijają się w dzieciństwie, alergia na skorupiaki często pojawia się dopiero w wieku dorosłym. Szacuje się, że około 2-3% populacji ogólnej cierpi na alergię na skorupiaki, przy czym częstość występowania jest wyższa w krajach, gdzie spożycie owoców morza stanowi istotną część diety, jak Azja czy Skandynawia12.

Mechanizm immunologiczny

Alergia na skorupiaki jest wynikiem nieprawidłowej odpowiedzi układu immunologicznego na białka obecne w skorupiakach. Gdy osoba uczulona spożywa skorupiaki, jej układ odpornościowy błędnie identyfikuje określone białka jako szkodliwe i reaguje nadmiernie, wytwarzając przeciwciała immunoglobuliny E (IgE)34. Te przeciwciała IgE wiążą się z komórkami tucznymi, a gdy białka skorupiaków ponownie dostają się do organizmu, komórki tuczne uwalniają histaminę i inne substancje chemiczne, które wywołują objawy alergiczne56.

Proces ten można podzielić na następujące etapy:

  1. Ekspozycja na białka skorupiaków (przez spożycie, dotyk lub wdychanie)
  2. Rozpoznanie tych białek przez układ immunologiczny jako szkodliwych
  3. Produkcja przeciwciał IgE skierowanych przeciwko tym białkom
  4. Wiązanie się przeciwciał IgE z komórkami tucznymi i bazofilami
  5. Uwolnienie mediatorów zapalnych, takich jak histamina
  6. Wystąpienie objawów alergicznych78

alergeny-w-skorupiakach”>Główne alergeny w skorupiakach

W skorupiakach zidentyfikowano kilka białek alergennych, które mogą wywoływać reakcje alergiczne:

  • Tropomiozyna – jest najważniejszym i najlepiej poznanym alergenem w skorupiakach. To białko mięśniowe odpowiada za większość reakcji alergicznych i jest główną przyczyną reaktywności krzyżowej między różnymi rodzajami skorupiaków910.
  • Kinaza argininowa – enzym obecny w skorupiakach, który również może wywoływać reakcje alergiczne1112.
  • Lekki łańcuch miozyny – białko mięśniowe występujące w skorupiakach12.
  • Białko wiążące wapń sarkoplazmatyczne – alergen występujący w tkance mięśniowej skorupiaków13.
  • Hemocyjanina – białko transportujące tlen w mięczakach12.
  • Amylaza – enzym trawienny obecny w niektórych skorupiakach14.

Badania wykazały, że wysoki poziom przeciwciał IgE skierowanych przeciwko tropomiozynie koreluje z ciężkością alergii na skorupiaki15. Naukowcy z James Cook University i QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute odkryli również, że białka występujące w mięczakach (takich jak małże, przegrzebki, ostrygi, a nawet ośmiornice i ślimaki) mogą niezależnie wywoływać alergie pokarmowe1617.

Czynniki ryzyka i predyspozycje genetyczne

Rozwój alergii na skorupiaki jest związany z różnymi czynnikami ryzyka, które zwiększają podatność na wystąpienie tej reakcji alergicznej. Chociaż dokładna przyczyna rozwoju alergii na skorupiaki nie jest w pełni poznana, zidentyfikowano kilka istotnych czynników ryzyka1819.

Predyspozycje genetyczne

Czynniki genetyczne odgrywają znaczącą rolę w rozwoju alergii na skorupiaki. Osoby z rodzinną historią alergii, szczególnie alergii pokarmowych, mają wyższe ryzyko rozwoju alergii na skorupiaki2021. Jeśli bliscy członkowie rodziny, tacy jak rodzice lub rodzeństwo, mają alergię na skorupiaki lub inne alergie pokarmowe, prawdopodobieństwo rozwoju podobnej alergii wzrasta2223.

Badania sugerują, że genetyczna skłonność do produkcji przeciwciał IgE w odpowiedzi na określone białka może być dziedziczona. Ta genetyczna podatność jest często związana z ogólną tendencją do rozwoju chorób atopowych, takich jak astma, egzema czy alergiczny nieżyt nosa2425.

Czynniki środowiskowe

Środowisko odgrywa istotną rolę w rozwoju alergii na skorupiaki:

  • Częsta ekspozycja na skorupiaki – Osoby mieszkające w regionach przybrzeżnych, gdzie spożycie owoców morza jest wysokie, mogą mieć większe ryzyko rozwoju alergii na skorupiaki2026.
  • Ekspozycja zawodowa – Osoby pracujące w przemyśle rybnym lub przetwórstwa owoców morza są narażone na ciągły kontakt z białkami skorupiaków poprzez dotyk lub wdychanie, co może prowadzić do rozwoju alergii1327.
  • Ekspozycja na roztocza kurzu domowego i karaluchy – Te organizmy zawierają białka podobne do tropomiozyny znajdującej się w skorupiakach. Narażenie na te alergeny może zwiększyć ryzyko reakcji krzyżowych i rozwoju alergii na skorupiaki2829.

Rozwój alergii na skorupiaki w późniejszym wieku

W przeciwieństwie do większości alergii pokarmowych, które pojawiają się we wczesnym dzieciństwie, alergia na skorupiaki często rozwija się dopiero w wieku dorosłym306. Około 60% osób z alergią na skorupiaki doświadcza pierwszej reakcji alergicznej jako osoba dorosła3132.

To opóźnione wystąpienie może być związane z:

  • Zmianami hormonalnymi występującymi wraz z wiekiem33
  • Kumulacją ekspozycji na białka skorupiaków z czasem34
  • Zmianami w układzie odpornościowym związanymi z wiekiem34
  • Czynnikami wirusowymi lub bakteryjnymi, które mogą modyfikować odpowiedź organizmu33

Co interesujące, alergia na skorupiaki może się rozwinąć nawet u osób, które wcześniej spożywały skorupiaki bez żadnych problemów3536.

Reaktywność krzyżowa

Reaktywność krzyżowa jest zjawiskiem, w którym układ odpornościowy reaguje na podobne białka obecne w różnych produktach spożywczych lub innych substancjach. W przypadku alergii na skorupiaki, reaktywność krzyżowa odgrywa istotną rolę w wyjaśnianiu, dlaczego osoby uczulone na jeden rodzaj skorupiaków mogą również reagować na inne rodzaje3723.

Reaktywność krzyżowa między skorupiakami

Skorupiaki można podzielić na dwie główne grupy:

  • Skorupiaki (Crustacea): obejmują krewetki, kraby, homary, langusty i raki
  • Mięczaki (Mollusca): obejmują małże, ostrygi, przegrzebki, ośmiornice, kalmary i ślimaki3839

Osoby uczulone na jeden rodzaj skorupiaków często wykazują reakcje krzyżowe na inne skorupiaki w ramach tej samej grupy. Na przykład, osoba uczulona na kraby może również reagować na homary, krewetki i inne skorupiaki4027. Reaktywność krzyżowa między mięczakami i skorupiakami jest słabsza, ale również występuje14.

Badania pokazują, że:

  • Osoby uczulone na jeden rodzaj skorupiaków (Crustacea) mają wysokie prawdopodobieństwo reakcji na inne skorupiaki41
  • Około 14% osób z alergią na skorupiaki jest uczulonych zarówno na skorupiaki, jak i mięczaki5
  • Niektóre osoby mogą być uczulone tylko na jedną grupę (np. tylko na skorupiaki lub tylko na mięczaki)42

Reaktywność krzyżowa z innymi organizmami

Interesującym aspektem alergii na skorupiaki jest jej potencjalna reaktywność krzyżowa z innymi organizmami bezkręgowymi, które zawierają podobne białka, szczególnie tropomiozynę43. Należą do nich:

  • Roztocza kurzu domowego – Tropomiozyna obecna w roztoczach kurzu domowego wykazuje strukturalne podobieństwo do tropomiozyny skorupiaków2844
  • Karaluchy – Zawierają białka podobne do tych obecnych w skorupiakach29
  • Owady – Niektóre owady, w tym świerszcze, mogą zawierać białka podobne do tropomiozyny29

Ekspozycja na roztocze kurzu domowego jest uważana za potencjalny czynnik sensytyzujący dla alergii na skorupiaki, co stanowi przykład reaktywności krzyżowej między alergenami wziewnymi a pokarmowymi28. Niektórzy badacze sugerują, że ciągła ekspozycja na roztocze kurzu domowego obecne w materacach, meblach i dywanach może odgrywać rolę w rozwoju alergii na skorupiaki u dorosłych29.

Mylne powiązania i nieporozumienia

Istnieje kilka powszechnych nieporozumień dotyczących reaktywności krzyżowej w alergii na skorupiaki:

  • Alergia na jod – Błędne jest przekonanie, że osoby z alergią na skorupiaki są uczulone na jod. Reaktywność alergiczna jest spowodowana białkami (takimi jak tropomiozyna), a nie jodem obecnym w skorupiakach4546.
  • Środki kontrastowe zawierające jod – Osoby z alergią na skorupiaki nie mają zwiększonego ryzyka reakcji na środki kontrastowe zawierające jod używane w badaniach radiologicznych547.
  • Alergia na ryby – Alergia na skorupiaki i alergia na ryby to dwie różne alergie. Osoba uczulona na skorupiaki niekoniecznie musi unikać ryb (takich jak łosoś, tuńczyk, dorsz)3548.

Inne przyczyny reakcji na skorupiaki

Nie wszystkie niepożądane reakcje po spożyciu skorupiaków są prawdziwymi alergiami. Istnieją inne przyczyny, które mogą wywoływać objawy podobne do alergii, ale mają inny mechanizm działania449.

Reakcje nieimmunologiczne

Niektóre reakcje po spożyciu skorupiaków nie są spowodowane odpowiedzią immunologiczną, lecz innymi mechanizmami4:

  • Nietolerancja pokarmowa – reakcja organizmu na spożycie skorupiaków bez udziału układu immunologicznego, często związana z brakiem określonych enzymów trawiennych50
  • Zatrucie toksynami – Niektóre skorupiaki mogą zawierać naturalne toksyny lub gromadzić toksyny z otoczenia51
  • Reakcje farmakologiczne – spowodowane substancjami chemicznymi obecnymi w skorupiakach, które mogą wywoływać reakcje bez zaangażowania układu odpornościowego9

Pasożytnicze i mikrobiologiczne przyczyny reakcji

Niektóre reakcje po spożyciu skorupiaków mogą być spowodowane przez organizmy patogenne4:

  • Anisakis simplex – Pasożytniczy nicień często występujący w owocach morza, w tym kalmarach. Może wywoływać reakcje alergiczne, które mogą być mylone z alergią na skorupiaki1346.
  • Bakterie – skorupiaki mogą być skażone bakteriami, które mogą powodować zatrucia pokarmowe z objawami podobnymi do reakcji alergicznej4
  • Wirusy – niektóre wirusy obecne w skorupiakach mogą wywoływać reakcje przypominające alergię4

Alergia na Anisakis może przypominać inne reakcje alergiczne na żywność. W tym przypadku alergia dotyczy pasożyta ryb, a nie samych ryb. Alergeny Anisakis simplex nie są niszczone przez obróbkę cieplną lub gotowanie, więc reakcje alergiczne mogą być wywoływane przez martwe pasożyty w rybach, które zostały dobrze ugotowane51.

Reakcje spowodowane dodatkami i zanieczyszczeniami

Niektóre reakcje po spożyciu skorupiaków mogą być spowodowane przez dodatki do żywności lub zanieczyszczenia4:

  • Dodatki do żywności – konserwanty, barwniki, wzmacniacze smaku dodawane do przetworzonej żywności zawierającej skorupiaki mogą powodować reakcje u niektórych osób4
  • Zanieczyszczenia chemiczne – metale ciężkie, pestycydy lub inne zanieczyszczenia środowiskowe mogą gromadzić się w tkankach skorupiaków i powodować reakcje niepożądane u konsumentów9
  • Zanieczyszczenie krzyżowe – może wystąpić podczas przetwarzania żywności w fabrykach, sklepach spożywczych lub podczas przygotowywania potraw w restauracjach i domowych kuchniach1352

Ciguatera i inne zatrucia toksynami morskimi

Zatrucie ciguatera jest spowodowane spożyciem owoców morza, które zostały skażone toksynami pochodzącymi z glonów. Objawy występują w ciągu dwóch do trzech godzin po spożyciu skażonej żywności i obejmują mrowienie warg, języka i gardła, często z towarzyszącymi dolegliwościami żołądkowymi, bólem głowy, gorączką, bólami mięśni, a w przypadku zatrucia ciguatera, czasami zmianami ciśnienia krwi i rytmu serca51.

Czynniki fizyczne i inne wpływające na reakcje alergiczne

Istnieją również czynniki, które mogą wpływać na intensywność reakcji alergicznych na skorupiaki lub współdziałać z alergią28:

  • Wysiłek fizyczny – Wysiłek może być czynnikiem współdziałającym w reakcji alergicznej na skorupiaki. U niektórych osób reakcja alergiczna może wystąpić tylko wtedy, gdy spożycie skorupiaków jest połączone z wysiłkiem fizycznym2841.
  • Obróbka termiczna – Zamiast niszczyć alergeny w skorupiakach, obróbka termiczna i obróbka ciśnieniowa mogą zwiększać aktywność alergenną. Dlatego gotowane skorupiaki mogą być bardziej alergenne niż surowe3753.
  • Opóźnione reakcje – Chociaż większość reakcji alergicznych na skorupiaki pojawia się w ciągu minut od spożycia, możliwe są również reakcje opóźnione. Reakcje alergiczne na skorupiaki są nieprzewidywalne i mogą wystąpić długo po spożyciu alergenu3041.
  • Ekspozycja zawodowa – Osoby pracujące w przemyśle rybnym mogą rozwinąć alergię na skorupiaki poprzez ekspozycję zawodową, oddychając lub dotykając białek skorupiaków regularnie. Szacuje się, że 28,5 miliona ludzi na całym świecie jest zaangażowanych w różne aspekty przemysłu rybnego13.

Podsumowanie etiologii alergii na skorupiaki

Alergia na skorupiaki jest złożoną reakcją immunologiczną, której rozwój zależy od wielu czynników. Główną przyczyną jest nieprawidłowa odpowiedź układu immunologicznego na określone białka (głównie tropomiozynę) obecne w skorupiakach. Predyspozycje genetyczne, ekspozycja środowiskowa, w tym ekspozycja na roztocza kurzu domowego i karaluchy, oraz czynniki zawodowe odgrywają istotną rolę w rozwoju tej alergii5455.

W przeciwieństwie do większości alergii pokarmowych, alergia na skorupiaki często rozwija się w wieku dorosłym i zazwyczaj utrzymuje się przez całe życie. Reaktywność krzyżowa między różnymi rodzajami skorupiaków oraz między skorupiakami a innymi organizmami, takimi jak roztocza kurzu domowego, dodatkowo komplikuje tę alergię3556.

Ważne jest również, aby odróżnić prawdziwą alergię na skorupiaki od innych przyczyn niepożądanych reakcji, takich jak zatrucia toksynami, reakcje na pasożyty czy zanieczyszczenia415.

Zrozumienie złożonych mechanizmów leżących u podstaw alergii na skorupiaki ma kluczowe znaczenie dla dokładnej diagnozy, skutecznego zarządzania i potencjalnego rozwoju terapii w przyszłości579.

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  1. 11.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Allergic and toxic reactions to seafood – Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)
    https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/food-allergy/allergic-and-toxic-reactions-to-seafood
    Seafood allergy occurs most commonly where seafood is an important part of the diet, such as in Asia and Scandinavia. Approximately 1% of the population is estimated to have a seafood allergy. […] The major groups of seafood that can trigger allergic reactions: […] Shellfish (invertebrates without a backbone) […] Crustaceans including prawns/shrimps, lobster, crab, crayfish, and yabbies. […] The protein allergens present in one seafood group can be very different to those in other seafood groups. This means that a person can be allergic to fish only, shellfish only, or members of both groups. […] Allergy to one crustacean usually means that all must be avoided. […] Symptoms caused by allergic reactions to seafood usually appear within minutes. […] Delayed reactions and exercise-induced anaphylaxis can occur, particularly after eating shellfish such as oyster, abalone, squid, and shrimp.
  • #2 Not all shellfish
    https://ctajournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2045-7022-1-3
    The approximate prevalence of shellfish allergy is estimated at 0.5-2.5% of the general population, depending on degree of consumption by age and geographic regions. […] Tropomyosin is the major allergen and is responsible for cross-reactivity between members of the shellfish family, particularly among the crustacea. […] Newly described allergens and subtle differences in the structures of tropomyosin between different species of shellfish could account for the discrepancy between in vitro cross-antigenicity and clinical cross-allergenicity. […] Shellfish is one of the leading causes of food allergy in adults and is a common cause of food-induced anaphylaxis. […] The prevalence of shellfish allergy in Asian countries is higher than in western countries, and this might reflect the geographic consumption of shellfish.
  • #3 Shellfish allergy | Altru Health System
    https://www.altru.org/health-library/conditions/shellfish-allergy
    Shellfish allergy is an atypical response by the body’s immune system to proteins in certain marine animals. […] In shellfish allergy, your immune system mistakenly identifies a certain protein in shellfish as harmful. Your immune system is how your body protects itself, so it produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to protect against this allergen. […] All food allergies are caused by an immune system overreaction.
  • #4 Shellfish Allergy – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448089/
    Shellfish allergies can occur due to immunologic or nonimmunological processes, and individuals may react to crustaceans, such as crab or shrimp, or mollusks, such as clams or scallops, or both. […] Shellfish reactions can occur as a result of immune system-mediated effects and also through nonimmunological processes. It is important to determine the underlying cause for the patients presentation to direct therapy best and understand management implications. […] Reactions or symptoms due to shellfish consumption may be attributable to various factors. Some reactions are not a true allergy due to infectious agents such as parasites, bacteria, viruses, and parasites. […] True allergic reactions may occur to substances in the shellfish (such as tropomyosins), or from a component ingested with the shellfish such as spices or chemical additives.
  • #5 Shellfish Allergy: The Least Encountered, the Most Dangerous | American Camp Association
    https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/shellfish-allergy-least-encountered-most-dangerous
    Almost seven million Americans have an allergy to shellfish based on consumption amount, age, and locale. […] Shellfish allergy is an immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated allergy, meaning that after eating, handling, or breathing in shellfish, the body’s immune system overreacts by producing IgE antibodies which bind to mast cells. […] Tropomyosin, a muscle protein, is the prominent allergen in shellfish and causes cross-reactivity among types of shellfish species, especially within crustaceans. […] There is a common misconception that iodine provokes an allergic reaction to shellfish. Because iodine is not a cause for shellfish allergy, there should be no concern about any cross-reactions with iodine or iodine-containing radiocontrast material used in MRIs and other medical procedures. […] Most individuals with a shellfish allergy are only allergic to crustacean species, such as lobster, crawfish, and shrimp. It is possible to react to one kind of shellfish but eat another type without an issue. However, approximately 14 percent of those with a shellfish allergy are allergic to both crustaceans and mollusks.
  • #6 Shellfish – FoodAllergy.org
    https://www.foodallergy.org/living-food-allergies/food-allergy-essentials/common-allergens/shellfish
    Shellfish allergies are the most common food allergies in adults and among the most common food allergies in children. Approximately 2% of the U.S. population reports an allergy to shellfish. Shellfish allergies are usually lifelong. […] When a person with an allergy to a particular shellfish is exposed to that shellfish, proteins in the shellfish bind to specific IgE antibodies made by the persons immune system. This triggers the persons immune defenses, leading to reaction symptoms that can be mild or very severe. […] About 60 percent of people with shellfish allergy experience their first allergic reaction as adults. […] The major allergen in shellfish is a muscle protein called tropomyosin and this is what is responsible for causing the allergic reaction.
  • #7 What Is a Shellfish Allergy? – TexasAllergyMD
    https://texasallergymd.com/blog/what-is-shellfish-allergy/
    A shellfish allergy is an immune system response to proteins found in crustaceans and mollusks. […] An allergic reaction is caused by exposure to shellfish proteins from one or more types of crustacean or mollusk. […] The IgE antibodies bind to specific cells known as mast cells and basophils. Further exposure to shellfish causes the mast cells and basophils to release chemicals including histamine, and this action then triggers allergy symptoms.
  • #8 Shellfish Allergy Symptoms and Treatment | Baptist Health
    https://www.baptisthealth.com/care-services/conditions-treatments/food-allergies/shellfish-allergy
    A shellfish allergy occurs when a persons immunological system overreacts to the consumption of hard-shelled seafood. […] Shellfish contains a protein called tropomyosin that can trigger a response from the human immune system. In more extreme cases, this response includes the production of histamines and an antibody known as immunoglobulin E or IgE. […] You are more likely to develop a shellfish allergy if other members of your family also have allergies. Adults are at a greater risk than children for shellfish allergies, with adult women more susceptible than adult men.
  • #9 Shellfish allergy – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20412131/
    Seafood plays an important role in human nutrition and health. […] Adverse reactions to seafood are often generated by contaminants but can also be mediated by the immune system and cause allergies. […] Allergic reactions to 'shellfish’, which comprises the groups of crustaceans and molluscs, can generate clinical symptoms ranging from mild urticaria and oral allergy syndrome to life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. […] The major shellfish allergen is tropomyosin, although other allergens may play an important part in allergenicity such as arginine kinase and myosin light chain. […] Current observations regard tropomyosin to be the major allergen responsible for molecular and clinical cross-reactivity between crustaceans and molluscs, but also to other inhaled invertebrates such as house dust mites and insects. […] Future research on the molecular structure of tropomyosins with a focus on the immunological and particularly clinical cross-reactivity will improve diagnosis and management of this potentially life-threatening allergy and is essential for future immunotherapy.
  • #10 Shellfish Allergy Symptoms, Causes, Natural Remedies and More – Dr. Axe
    https://draxe.com/health/shellfish-allergy/
    Its true that with food allergies, one persons food can truly be another ones poison. The popularity of shellfish has been increasing worldwide, but consequently, shellfish constitute the No. 1 cause of food allergies in the American adult. The approximate prevalence of shellfish allergy is estimated at 0.5 percent to 2.5 percent of the general population. […] Shellfish is one of the leading causes of food allergies in adults and is a common cause of food-induced anaphylaxis. […] The major shellfish allergen has been identified as tropomyosin, a muscle protein that is present in different species of shellfish and could be responsible for cross-reactivity. This is why most people who are allergic to one type of shellfish are often allergic to other types as well. […] Research shows that adverse reactions to seafood are often generated by contaminants but can also be mediated by the immune system and cause allergies.
  • #11
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40629-016-0124-2
    Shellfish belongs to The Big 8 food groups causing allergy, which often does not outgrow during childhood. […] Currently, at least seven different shellfish allergens have been identified, mostly from crustaceans. […] However, only three recombinant allergens are available for IgE-based routine diagnostic, including tropomyosin, arginine kinase, and sarcoplasmic Ca2+-binding protein. […] Currently, 2 % of the general world population is affected by shellfish allergy, with much higher rates in countries with high seafood consumption. Unlike many other food allergies, most shellfish allergy persists for life in the affected individual. […] The prevalence of allergic reactions to seafood is usually higher when the consumption plays a greater part in the diet of the observed community.
  • #12 Understanding Seafood Allergies | Asthma Center
    https://www.asthmacenter.com/understanding-seafood-allergies/
    Allergies to seafood are the most commonly reported allergy for adults and are among the most common for young children. Seafood allergies affect about 1-3% of the general population, with allergy to shellfish specifically being the most common and tending to cause more severe reactions and emergency department visits. […] Shellfish allergy can develop at any age throughout life and can be persistent, even for those with new onset shellfish allergy. Some individuals, on the other hand, can experience an allergic reaction the first time they eat shellfish. […] The major allergens in shellfish allergy are muscle proteins called tropomyosins. Other allergens in shellfish allergy include myosin light chain (a muscle protein), arginine kinase (an enzyme), and hemocyanin (a protein in mollusks that carries oxygen).
  • #13 Shellfish allergy – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shellfish_allergy
    Shellfish allergy is an immune hypersensitivity to proteins found in shellfish. […] The immune system overreacts to proteins found in shellfish, most commonly to tropomyosin, but often to other proteins, such as arginine kinase, myosin light chain and sarcoplasmic calcium-binding protein. […] The cause is typically the eating of shellfish or foods that contain shellfish. […] Once an allergic reaction has occurred it usually remains a lifelong sensitivity. […] Cross-contact, also referred to as cross-contamination, occurs when foods are being processed in factories or at food markets, or are being prepared for cooking in restaurants and home kitchens. […] The food-borne parasite Anisakis is a genus of nematodes known to be present in squid. […] An industry review conducted in 1990 estimated that 28.5 million people worldwide were engaged in some aspect of the seafood industry: fishing, aquaculture, processing and industrial cooking.
  • #14 Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis – Food Allergens – Crustacean Shellfish | FAACT
    https://www.foodallergyawareness.org/food-allergy-and-anaphylaxis/food-allergens/crustacean-shellfish/
    Crustacean shellfish allergy is more common, and only crustacean shellfish are required to be listed on labels in the US per FALCPA (not mollusk, and this is an important distinction to understand). […] The major protein that causes allergy in shellfish allergic individuals is called tropomyosin. […] This is highly shared among both species of shellfish, and also in the shells of invertebrates such as the common dust mite (which are also arthropods). […] Mollusks also contain other allergens such as myosin heavy chain, haemocyanin, amylase, and arginine kinase. […] There is some risk of clinically reacting to another crustacean (or mollusk) member if there is allergy to one member, but there is less risk of clinical cross-reactivity between crustaceans and mollusks (though this still occurs in some).
  • #15 Not all shellfish
    https://ctajournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2045-7022-1-3
    Only a few studies evaluated the natural history of shellfish allergy, and they seem to indicate that it is long-lasting. […] Tropomyosin is not only a major crustacean allergen, it has also been demonstrated in a number of mollusk species. […] High levels of serum IgE to tropomyosin is correlated with severity of shellfish allergy, however it may not be the only allergen responsible for shellfish sensitization in HDM sensitized individuals. […] It is important to distinguish between shellfish allergy and toxicity as their presentations can mimic each other. […] The primary management of shellfish allergy is avoidance.
  • #16 New culprit found to cause shellfish allergy – JCU Australia
    https://www.jcu.edu.au/news/releases/2022/may/new-culprit-found-to-cause-shellfish-allergy
    Researchers have discovered a new primary cause of shellfish allergy which could lead to better targeted testing and diagnosis of the potentially life-threatening reaction. […] Now scientists from James Cook University and QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute have shown for the first time that a protein found in molluscs, including abalone, clams, scallops, oysters, and even octopus and snails, can also independently cause food allergy. […] We have shown that molluscs too can be a primary cause of the allergy. […] Our findings mean we need to revise how were diagnosing food allergy to include molluscs, said Associate Professor Navarro. […] People who have a shellfish allergy and avoid prawns and crabs should be aware that other species like molluscs could actually be whats making them allergic and should be avoided too.
  • #17 A new culprit found to cause shellfish allergy
    https://www.qimrb.edu.au/whats-on/news/a-new-culprit-found-to-cause-shellfish-allergy
    Researchers have discovered a new primary cause of shellfish allergy which could lead to better targeted testing and diagnosis of the potentially life-threatening reaction. […] Now scientists from QIMR Berghofer and James Cook University have shown for the first time that a protein found in molluscs, including abalone, clams, scallops, oysters, and even octopus and snails, can also independently cause food allergy. […] We have shown that molluscs can also be a primary cause of the allergy. […] Our findings mean we need to revise how were diagnosing food allergy to include molluscs. […] People who have a shellfish allergy and avoid prawns and crabs should be aware that other species like molluscs could actually be whats making them allergic and should be avoided too. […] They are now working on further research to demonstrate the links between sensitivity to crustaceans and molluscs and house dust mites in causing shellfish allergy and develop therapeutic approaches.
  • #18 Food Allergies: Causes, Common Examples & Cures
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9196-food-allergies
    The most common food allergies are peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, egg, milk, wheat, soy and sesame. […] Food allergies are reactions your body has to a food that it mistakenly thinks is harmful. […] When you have a food allergy, your immune system mistakenly identifies a food protein as something harmful (as if it were a virus or bacteria). […] The most serious complication of food allergies is anaphylaxis, or swelling in multiple body systems that can cause uncontrolled vomiting, difficulty breathing and a severe drop in blood pressure (anaphylactic shock). Severe anaphylaxis can be fatal. […] Sometimes. Many kids outgrow milk and egg allergies by age 6. But they rarely (less than 20% of the time) outgrow peanut, tree nut, shellfish or fish allergies.
  • #19 Allergic and anaphylactic reactions
    https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/allergic_and_anaphylactic_reactions/
    Allergic reactions are common in children. They happen when the immune system reacts to something in the environment that is normally harmless, such as food proteins, pollens or dust mites. Allergic reactions can be triggered by an allergen (the substance the person is allergic to) coming into contact with the skin, eyes, nose, lungs, stomach or bowel. […] The most common causes of food allergy in children are egg, peanut, tree nuts, cow’s milk, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish and sesame. […] Food allergy and anaphylaxis seem to have increased significantly in recent decades; however, the reason for this increase is not known. Researchers are investigating why more children have allergies these days, and they are looking into issues such as methods of food processing or the fact that babies are now exposed to fewer infections in early childhood. What is known is that allergies do tend to run in families.
  • #20
    https://www.wyndly.com/blogs/learn/shellfish-allergy?srsltid=AfmBOopnq1sSDakG2MPnLI6Pc5LBorIoMape4VCCoqlEffNlphhWQ6tJ
    A shellfish allergy is a hypersensitive immune response to the proteins found in shellfish, causing an individual to develop symptoms upon ingestion. […] The cause of a shellfish allergy is the immune system misidentifying certain proteins found in shellfish as harmful. This triggers an allergic reaction whenever shellfish is consumed. Both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the development of a shellfish allergy. […] Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of shellfish allergies. If a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, has a shellfish allergy or any other type of food allergy, you’re more likely to develop one too. […] Environment also influences the development of shellfish allergies. People who live in coastal areas and consume a lot of shellfish are more likely to develop an allergy. Additionally, exposure to cockroaches and dust mites, which share similar proteins with shellfish, may increase the risk. […] Understanding these causes can help in managing shellfish allergies, and underlines the importance of a proper skin allergy test for accurate diagnosis.
  • #21 Shellfish Allergy Symptoms and Treatment – Food Allergy Institute
    https://foodallergyinstitute.com/severe-food-allergies/shellfish-allergy-symptoms-and-treatment
    A shellfish allergy is an immune system response to proteins found in certain types of shellfish including, but not limited to, shrimp, crab, lobster, clams, oysters, mussels, and scallops. Approximately 2% of Americans report an allergy to shellfish. […] Shellfish allergies are primarily caused by an abnormal immune response to proteins found in certain types of shellfish. When an individual with a predisposition to shellfish allergies comes into contact with shellfish proteins, their immune system mistakenly identifies these proteins as harmful invaders and triggers a shellfish allergy reaction. […] Genetics play a role in the development of shellfish allergies as individuals with a family history of allergies are more prone to developing this condition.
  • #22
    https://www.amerikanhastanesi.org/mayo-clinic-care-network/mayo-clinic-health-information-library/diseases-conditions/shellfish-allergy
    Shellfish allergy is an atypical response by the body’s immune system to proteins in certain marine animals. Marine animals in the shellfish category include crustaceans and mollusks. Examples are shrimp, crabs, lobster, squid, oysters, scallops and snails. […] Shellfish allergy symptoms generally start within minutes to an hour after eating or having contact with shellfish. […] All food allergies are caused by an immune system overreaction. Your immune system identifies a harmless substance as being harmful. This substance is called an allergen. In shellfish allergy, your immune system mistakenly identifies a certain protein in shellfish as harmful. […] An allergy to crustaceans is the most common type. […] You’re at increased risk of developing shellfish allergy if allergies of any type are common in your family. […] In severe cases, shellfish allergy can lead to anaphylaxis, a dangerous allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. […] If you have shellfish allergy, the only way to avoid an allergic reaction is to avoid all shellfish and products that contain shellfish.
  • #23 Shellfish Allergy: Symptoms and Causes | Allergy & Immunology Center
    https://www.toplinemd.com/allergy-institute/shellfish-allergy-symptoms-and-causes/
    Shellfish allergies are primarily triggered by proteins in the shellfish, such as tropomyosin. The immune system mistakenly identifies these proteins as harmful invaders, leading to an allergic response. […] Genetic factors play a role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to shellfish allergies. A family history of allergies may increase the likelihood of developing an allergy to shellfish. […] Individuals allergic to one type of shellfish may experience cross-reactivity with other shellfish species. Cross-reactivity occurs when the immune system reacts to similar proteins found in different shellfish.
  • #24 Food allergy
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/food-allergy/
    A food allergy is caused by your immune system overreacting to certain types of food. […] It’s not clear why this happens, but certain foods are more likely to cause an allergic reaction in some people. […] The most common allergic foods include: shellfish, such as prawns, crab and lobster. […] You have a slightly higher chance of getting a food allergy if you or a close family member have other allergies, asthma or eczema.
  • #25
    https://www.nicklauschildrens.org/conditions/shellfish-allergy
    Food allergies are when a person develops allergy antibodies (IgE antibodies) to a protein in a food, and when exposed to this protein it causes an allergic reaction. Shellfish allergy is when you have an allergic reaction to crab, lobster, shrimp, oysters, scallops, clams, or other shellfish. This is different from a fish allergy. […] We do not know why certain people develop food allergies and others do not. There are many theories as to why food allergies are becoming more prevalent.
  • #26
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40629-016-0124-2
    It is generally considered that crustaceans and mollusks are among the foods that most commonly provoke severe anaphylaxis. […] A recent study established surprisingly that seafood allergies are a significant health concern affecting approximately 6.5 million people in the United States (US) more than twice as common as peanut allergy. […] While seafood allergy is common in Western countries such as Europe, the US, and Australia, it seems that in Asian countries allergic reactions to shellfish are of greater importance among adults and children. […] Not only ingestion of shellfish can cause sensitization, but also exposure during processing in factories and domestic environment. […] Over the past 20 years, several shellfish allergens, particularly in crustaceans have been identified and sequenced.
  • #27 Shellfish Allergy | Anaphylaxis UK
    https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/fact-sheet/shellfish-allergy/
    Shellfish allergy is a type of food allergy. Food allergy occurs when the bodys immune system wrongly identifies a food as a threat. When this happens, the body releases chemicals, such as histamine, in response. It is the release of these chemicals that causes symptoms. […] If you react to one type of shellfish, its likely youll react to others in the same group. For example, if you react to crabs, its likely youll react to other crustaceans. You might react to shellfish in the other group as well, in this case molluscs. […] Some clues that you might be at higher risk of more serious reactions are: you have already had a serious reaction, with any of the ABC symptoms; you have asthma, especially if it is not well controlled; you have reacted to a tiny amount of shellfish. […] If you work in the seafood industry, you are more at risk of developing an allergy to fish or shellfish because you will be breathing in or touching fish and shellfish proteins on a regular basis.
  • #28 Shellfish allergy – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shellfish_allergy
    Tropomyosin, the major allergen in shellfish allergy, is also found in dust mites and cockroaches. […] Exposure to inhaled tropomyosins from dust mites is thought to be the primary sensitizer for shellfish allergy, an example of inhalant-to-food cross-reactivity. […] Exercise can be a contributing factor to an allergic food response.
  • #29 Shellfish Allergy: Symptoms, Causes and Tricks to Manage
    https://www.allergicliving.com/2023/02/14/shellfish-allergy-symptoms-causes-and-tricks-to-manage/
    Shellfish allergy is an immune system response to the proteins found in certain types of seafood. It’s the most common allergy in North American adults, often developing in adulthood. […] The main allergen in shellfish is a protein called tropomyosin. In addition to being found in shellfish, it’s also in crickets, cockroaches and dust mites. […] Sicherer says it’s unclear why so many adults develop shellfish allergy, but one theory is that our constant exposure to dust mites in our mattresses, furnishings, carpets and other areas could be playing a role. […] One study showed this was the case in up to 90 percent of patients. […] Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment for shellfish allergy, and it is rarely used in oral immunotherapy studies.
  • #30 Shellfish Allergies: Symptoms and Treatments
    https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/shellfish
    Although most major food allergies begin in childhood, one allergy in particular stands apart: shellfish. An allergy to shellfish may develop any time during a persons life, but tends to present in adulthood. It can be caused by foods that youve eaten before with no issues. […] Along with fish, shellfish allergies are the most common adult-onset food allergies. Its estimated that more than 6.5 million American adults have allergies to one or both, according to Food Allergy Research Education (FARE). […] A shellfish allergy is different from other allergies in other ways, as well. For example, allergic reactions to shellfish are unpredictable, sometimes occurring long after a person has consumed the allergen and has shown no other symptoms. Allergic reactions to shellfish also often become more severe with each exposure.
  • #31 Shellfish Allergy: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment | Latitude
    https://latitudefoodallergycare.com/allergens/shellfish-allergy
    Shellfish allergy is typically caused by tropomyosin, a key protein found in the mollusk and crustacean families. Additional allergens in mollusks include amylase, arginine kinase, myosin heavy chain, and haemocyanin. Tropomyosin is also a shared protein in invertebrate shells. […] Even if you have never had any issue eating shellfish, it is possible to develop a shellfish allergy at some point in your life. While shellfish allergies can impact anyone, its more common to have them develop in adults. In fact, its estimated that 60% of people who have shellfish allergies have their first allergic experience as an adult. […] Shellfish allergies, like all food allergies, can change over time. Unfortunately, the majority of people who do develop a shellfish allergy will have it for their lifetime.
  • #32 Shellfish Allergy Overview from Doctor Mehta in New Orleans, LA
    https://uptownallergyasthma.com/shellfish-allergy/
    You can develop a shellfish allergy at any age and this is true even if you’ve previously eaten shellfish without issues. However, shellfish allergy appears to be more prevalent in adults than children and 60% of all individuals with shellfish allergy first became symptomatic in their adulthood. In the US, survey studies have attempted to further quantify the proportion of the population with shellfish allergy. In one study by Sicherer et al., the authors found that 1 in 50 Americans self-reported a shellfish allergy.
  • #33
    https://www.everlywell.com/blog/food-allergy/shellfish-allergy-symptoms-signs/?srsltid=AfmBOorQ1wmX0wOE56MJX15KuV77Z3UQu73CVYhi_JP9xC-mC7p_9uvx
    What causes allergic reactions to shellfish? […] Food allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a specific type of food. But regardless of what food you’re allergic to, the reaction process for most food-related allergic reactions is similar. […] For those with shellfish allergies, it usually involves the following: Your body is exposed to seafood or a type of shellfish. The tropomyosin protein in the shellfish binds to antibodies produced by your immune system. The shellfish protein then triggers your immune system to produce more antibodies. Your immune system also releases histamine, which is responsible for some symptoms. You experience allergic reaction symptoms due to your immune response. […] There could be several reasons for this, including hormonal changes as we grow older, genetic and environmental factors, and viral or bacterial factors that change your body’s response. Researchers aren’t certain of the cause of adult-onset shellfish allergies.
  • #34 Can a Shellfish Allergy Develop Later in Life? | Food Allergies Atlanta
    https://foodallergiesatlanta.com/food-allergy-blog/can-shellfish-allergy-develop-later/
    Shellfish allergies can indeed develop later in life, potentially affecting adults of all ages. […] The exact reasons why shellfish allergies might develop later in life are unknown. However, various theories consider what may be happening. […] Repeated exposure to shellfish may cause the immune system to become sensitized and eventually lead to an allergy. […] As people age, changes in the immune system may make them more susceptible to developing allergies. […] While allergies to milk, eggs and other foods are frequently outgrown as the immune system develops, shellfish allergies often persist throughout a persons life.
  • #35 Shellfish Allergy: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11319-allergies-shellfish
    A shellfish allergy is a type of food allergy. […] A shellfish allergy, or any food allergy, results from an immune system overreaction. […] Anyone can develop a shellfish allergy even if you’ve had shellfish before without any problems. […] Approximately 2% of the U.S. population (around 6 million people) has a shellfish allergy. […] Crustaceans cause more allergic reactions than mollusks. […] The most life-threatening complication of a shellfish allergy is anaphylactic shock, a severe type of allergic reaction. […] Most people who have a shellfish allergy have it for life. It doesn’t go away over time. […] Crustaceans like shrimp, lobster and crab tend to cause more allergic reactions. Of the crustaceans, shrimp causes the most allergies. […] Shellfish allergies and fish allergies are different because they’re different animals. […] Having a shellfish allergy doesn’t necessarily mean you’re allergic to iodine.
  • #36 Shellfish Allergies Symptoms and Treatment—Jax Allergy
    https://www.jaxallergy.com/allergy-treatments/food-allergies/shellfish-allergy/
    Shellfish allergy is one of the big eight common food allergies. […] The most common causes of shellfish allergy are from shrimp, crab, and lobster. […] Typically a shellfish allergy is lifelong and approximately 60 percent of shellfish allergy sufferers did not have a reaction until they were an adult. […] It is possible to be allergic to certain types of shellfish and not others. […] Shellfish allergies can develop later in life, even if a person has previously consumed shellfish without any adverse reactions. […] The recommended treatment for a shellfish allergy involves strict avoidance of shellfish and any foods or products containing shellfish ingredients. […] Cross-reactivities can occur between different types of shellfish. […] Shellfish allergies are generally considered lifelong allergies, and it is less common for individuals to outgrow them compared to other food allergies like milk or egg allergies.
  • #37 Shellfish Allergen Facts, Symptoms, and Treatment | Allergy Insider
    https://www.thermofisher.com/allergy/us/en/allergen-fact-sheets/shellfish.html
    Some people with shellfish allergy may also experience symptoms when eating other seemingly unrelated foods. This is called cross-reactivity and occurs when your body’s immune system identifies the proteins, or components, in different substances as being structurally similar or biologically related, thus triggering a response. The most common cross-reactivities with shellfish are other crustaceans (e.g., lobster, shrimp, and crab), and weaker cross-reactivity is found with mollusks (e.g., scallops, mussels, oysters, and squid). […] Rather than destroying allergens in shellfish, heat processing and pressure treatment may enhance allergenic activity. As such, cooked shellfish may actually be more allergenic than raw iterations. […] Shellfish consists of different types of proteins that all have different characteristics and different levels of risk for causing symptoms. […] If you have reacted to a very small amount of shellfish, you likely have a severe allergy.
  • #38 Shellfish and fish allergies | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/shellfish-and-fish-allergies
    The list of fish that can cause an allergic reaction is quite long and includes, but is not limited to: barramundi, cod, flake, salmon, snapper, trout, tuna, whiting. […] The list of shellfish (including molluscs and crustaceans) that can cause allergic reactions includes, but is not limited to: calamari, crayfish, cuttlefish, lobster, mussels, oysters, prawns, squid.
  • #39 Foods to Avoid When You Have a Shellfish Allergy
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/shellfish-allergy-diet-foods-to-avoid-1324478
    If you’re allergic to shellfish, you need to avoid all shellfish or risk a potentially severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis. […] Shellfish are divided into two families: mollusks and crustaceans. It’s possible to be allergic to just one of these two types of shellfish. […] If you’re allergic to one crustacean, you’re likely allergic to all of them. […] The primary allergen in shellfish is a protein called tropomyosin. Others include parvalbumin and arginine kinase. In all, there are around 20 individual proteins that are potential allergens in shellfish.
  • #40 Shellfish Allergy is not a Shell Game
    https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/shellfish-allergy-can-be-dangerous
    Shellfish, including shrimp, lobster, oysters and more, are often touted for their health benefits. But for millions of Americans with shellfish allergy, a tiny bite of these foods can cause a severe reaction. If you have a food allergy such as shellfish, your immune system overreacts to a particular protein found in that shellfish. […] Most people with one shellfish allergy are allergic to other species within the same class. For example, if you are allergic to crab, you may also be allergic to lobster, shrimp and other crustaceans. Likewise, if you are allergic to clams, you may also be allergic to other mollusks, such as mussels or scallops. […] Interestingly, iodine is also not the cause of allergic reactions to shellfish, which is caused by muscle proteins called tropomyosin. […] Shellfish allergy is more common in adults than children. This is probably due to our eating habits. Because young children dont typically eat shellfish, this allergy may not be apparent until later in life. […] An allergy to shellfish can result in symptoms of anaphylaxis (an-a-fi-LAK-sis), a life-threatening allergic reaction.
  • #41 Allergic and toxic reactions to seafood – Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)
    https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/food-allergy/allergic-and-toxic-reactions-to-seafood
    Seafood allergy occurs most commonly where seafood is an important part of the diet, such as in Asia and Scandinavia. Approximately 1% of the population is estimated to have a seafood allergy. […] The major groups of seafood that can trigger allergic reactions: […] Shellfish (invertebrates without a backbone) […] Crustaceans including prawns/shrimps, lobster, crab, crayfish, and yabbies. […] The protein allergens present in one seafood group can be very different to those in other seafood groups. This means that a person can be allergic to fish only, shellfish only, or members of both groups. […] Allergy to one crustacean usually means that all must be avoided. […] Symptoms caused by allergic reactions to seafood usually appear within minutes. […] Delayed reactions and exercise-induced anaphylaxis can occur, particularly after eating shellfish such as oyster, abalone, squid, and shrimp.
  • #42 Deep Dive: Everything You Need to Know About Fish and Shellfish Allergies
    https://trust20.co/blog/fish-shellfish-allergies
    Some people may be allergic to all types of shellfish, while others may only react to one or two. Unfortunately, even a small amount of shellfish can trigger a severe allergic reaction, so cross-contamination must be avoided at all costs. […] It’s also worth noting that shellfish allergies are often a lifelong condition, while finned fish allergies may be outgrown over time. […] Symptoms of a reaction usually occur within minutes to an hour after ingesting the allergen and can include: Hives, itching, and redness of the skin; Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat; Trouble breathing, wheezing, and coughing; Nauseous, abdominal pain, and vomiting; Dizziness, confusion, and fainting. […] In severe cases, anaphylaxisa potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and shockcan occur. […] Anisakis allergy is caused by an immune system response to the worm, which can cause breathing difficulties, hives, and even anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction).
  • #43
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40629-016-0124-2
    The most well known pan-allergen is tropomyosin, being the major cause for reported clinical cross-reactivity among and between crustaceans and mollusks, but also other invertebrates, including mites, cockroaches, and parasites. […] It is known that tropomyosin has mainly linear IgE epitopes and is of great importance in determining the degree of cross-reactivity between different shellfish species. […] Increasingly important seems to be IgE cross-sensitization between tropomyosin from shellfish and other important allergenic invertebrates, including dust-mites and cockroaches. […] However, an in-depth investigation into the conservation or relevance of specific IgE epitopes between pan-allergens from crustaceans and mollusks and clinical cross-reactivity to mites and cockroaches has not been conducted or confirmed using a larger number of shellfish allergic patients.
  • #44 Understanding Seafood Allergies | Asthma Center
    https://www.asthmacenter.com/understanding-seafood-allergies/
    Most allergic reactions occur in response to recognition to the above allergens by allergy antibodies known as IgE antibodies. […] Cross-reactive allergens are similar proteins present in different substances. […] For each person with diagnosed seafood allergy, it is imperative to also consider and test for cross-reactive proteins in dust mites and cockroaches. […] A common misconception is that individuals with shellfish allergy cannot take iodine or radio contrast material (RCM), which is used for contrast radiologic studies like CT scans and angiograms. This is not true. […] Allergy to shellfish is usually not outgrown and persistent throughout life. The first line of treatment is thus strict avoidance of shellfish.
  • #45 Shellfish Allergies: Symptoms and Treatments
    https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/shellfish
    Shellfish allergies are most often the immune systems response to a protein found in shellfish muscles called tropomyosin. Antibodies trigger the release of chemicals such as histamines to attack the tropomyosin. […] A study published in the Journal of Emergency Medicine concluded that iodine is not an allergen. According to the researchers, Allergies to shellfish, in particular, do not increase the risk of reaction to intravenous contrast any more that of other allergies. […] Allergy testing is the only sure way to tell if a reaction after eating shellfish is indeed a shellfish allergy. […] The only way to prevent a shellfish allergy is to avoid all shellfish and all products that contain shellfish.
  • #46 Shellfish Allergy | Anaphylaxis UK
    https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/fact-sheet/shellfish-allergy/
    It is a common myth that people with shellfish allergy are likely to be allergic to radiocontrast dye containing iodine, which is sometimes used in medical procedures. This is incorrect and there is no link between shellfish allergy and symptoms caused by radiocontrast dye or iodine. […] Some people who seem to be allergic to shellfish or fish may in fact have one of these conditions: Anisakis simplex (also known as the herring worm). This is a common parasite in many marine fish and shellfish. It can infect humans and can also cause allergic reactions in a very small number of people. People who have an allergic reaction to anisakis may think they have reacted to the fish or shellfish they ate. If you have a reaction to a type of fish or shellfish that you have eaten in the past without any problem, its possible that it was caused by anisakis. Speak to your doctor if this happens. […] Your doctor should be able to confirm whether you have an allergy or one of the above conditions.
  • #47
    https://www.aaaai.org/allergist-resources/ask-the-expert/answers/old-ask-the-experts/iodine-allergy-fish
    Pt gives history of anaphylaxis to swordfish and anchioves-and avoids shellfish because of +IgE via blood test done as a child. […] I advised the patient that the allergic component in shellfish (ie shrimp, lobster) is likely tropomyosin and iodine is not the issue. […] In addition to parvalbumin, collagen and tropomyosin may be allergens in select species of fish. […] These allergens may explain cross reactivity among seafood (the tropomyosin of tilapia has 50% homology with tropomyosin of shrimp) but has no relevance to your concern with iodine. […] A free review , although not in the medical peer reviewed literature, than you may find of interest is provided here and a study of cross reactivity to fish are provided in these references. […] Finally, apparent fish allergy by history can be the result of contaminants.
  • #48 Shellfish Allergy | Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | ACAAI Public Website
    https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/shellfish/
    If your mouth itches, or if you develop hives or a stomachache after eating crab, lobster or other shellfish, you may have a shellfish allergy, a condition that affects nearly 7 million Americans. […] Shellfish is among the most common food allergens. A shellfish allergy is different from an allergy to fish. Those who are allergic to shellfish do not necessarily have to avoid fish, and vice versa. […] Within the shellfish family, the crustacean group (shrimp, lobster and crab) causes the greatest number of allergic reactions. […] Shellfish allergies most frequently develop in adulthood but can affect children. […] Diagnosing shellfish allergies can be complicated. Symptoms can vary from person to person, and an individual may not always experience the same symptoms during every reaction.
  • #49 Not all shellfish
    https://ctajournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2045-7022-1-3
    The approximate prevalence of shellfish allergy is estimated at 0.5-2.5% of the general population, depending on degree of consumption by age and geographic regions. […] Tropomyosin is the major allergen and is responsible for cross-reactivity between members of the shellfish family, particularly among the crustacea. […] Newly described allergens and subtle differences in the structures of tropomyosin between different species of shellfish could account for the discrepancy between in vitro cross-antigenicity and clinical cross-allergenicity. […] Shellfish is one of the leading causes of food allergy in adults and is a common cause of food-induced anaphylaxis. […] The prevalence of shellfish allergy in Asian countries is higher than in western countries, and this might reflect the geographic consumption of shellfish.
  • #50 Shellfish Intolerance and Sensitivity | Signs & Symptoms | YorkTest US
    https://www.yorktest.com/us/intolerance/shellfish/
    In order to find out whether your symptoms are indeed tied to a shellfish sensitivity, we recommend taking a food sensitivity test to determine whether a sensitivity to shellfish is to blame and whether there are other ingredients that are also affecting you at meal times. […] If you suspect you have an underlying food sensitivity to shellfish, a Premium Food Sensitivity Test may help you gain back control of your health and relationship with food.
  • #51 Allergic and toxic reactions to seafood – Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)
    https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/food-allergy/allergic-and-toxic-reactions-to-seafood
    People with seafood allergy react to proteins in the seafood, not to iodine in the fish or shellfish. […] Anisakis allergy resembles other allergic reactions to food. In this case, the allergy is to the fish parasite, not to the fish itself. […] The allergens of Anisakis simplex are not destroyed by heat or cooking and so allergic reactions may be triggered by dead parasites in fish that have been well cooked. […] Ciguatera poisoning is caused by eating seafood that has been contaminated by algae-derived toxins. […] Symptoms occur within two to three hours of eating contaminated food, and consist of tingling of the lips, tongue and throat, often followed by stomach upset, headache, fever, muscle aches and pains and in the case of ciguatera poisoning, sometimes changes in blood pressure and heart rhythm.
  • #52 Shellfish Allergy (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth
    https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/shellfish-allergy.html
    A shellfish allergy is not exactly the same as a seafood allergy. […] Shellfish allergy can develop at any age. Even people who have eaten shellfish in the past can develop an allergy. […] When someone is allergic to shellfish, the body’s immune system, which normally fights infections, overreacts to proteins in the shellfish. […] Shellfish allergy can cause a severe reaction called anaphylaxis, even if a previous reaction was mild. […] Cross-contamination often happens in restaurants. […] Manufacturers also do not have to list mollusk shellfish ingredients because mollusk shellfish (clams, mussels, oysters, or scallops) are not considered a major food allergen.
  • #53 Fish and Shellfish Allergy | Allergy UK | National Charity
    https://www.allergyuk.org/resources/fish-and-shellfish-allergy-factsheet/
    People with seafood allergy may react to fish and/or shellfish. […] It may develop at any point in a person’s life. It can be caused by a fish or shellfish that has been eaten before with no previous signs of a food allergy. […] An allergy to either fish or shellfish is likely to be lifelong and is rarely outgrown. […] Cross contact occurs when one food type comes into contact with another, and their proteins (the allergy causing substance) mix. […] Individuals who are highly sensitive to small amounts of these proteins may develop allergic symptoms from eating, inhaling or handling fish and shellfish in the home or work environment. […] Fish and prawn allergens can be very robust and are not easily broken down by heating or cooking. […] It is advisable for people with a fish or shellfish allergy to avoid these supplements, as they may still contain small amounts of fish proteins.
  • #54 What you need to know about shellfish allergy diagnosis, treatment
    https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/headlines/what-you-need-to-know-about-shellfish-allergy-diagnosis-treatment/2022/10
    Did you know that shellfish allergy is very common in adults and children? In fact, shellfish is the leading cause of food allergy in the U.S. It affects around 3% of adults and a little over 1% of children. […] Food allergies in general result from an immune system overreaction. The immune system defends the body from invaders, such as infections. A food allergy occurs when the body identifies a food substance (known as an allergen) as a foreign invader in genetically susceptible individuals. This leads to an army of immune players orchestrating a series of reactions aiming at removing the invader. These reactions are manifested as allergy. […] There are many known allergens that might cause shellfish allergy. In fact, our review identified 49 crustacean allergens and eight in the mollusk family. However, among all allergens, tropomyosin is best recognized as the major allergen and the most well studied shellfish allergen.
  • #55 Shellfish allergy: What symptoms you should watch for and how it’s diagnosed and treatedmenu iconsearch iconsubscribe iconsearch iconarrow up right icon
    https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/good-food/shellfish-allergy-what-symptoms-you-should-watch-for-and-how-its-diagnosed-and-treated/2024/09
    Shellfish is the leading cause of self-reported food allergy in U.S. adults. It affects about 3% of adults and just over 1% of children. […] Food allergies are caused by an overreaction in your immune system. A food allergy occurs when the body mistakenly identifies a food substance (known as an allergen) as a foreign invader. This leads to an army of immune players working to remove the invader (known as a reaction). These reactions show up as an allergy. […] There are many allergens that might cause shellfish allergy. The crustacean group, which includes shrimp, lobster and crab, causes the most reactions.
  • #56 Shellfish Allergy | Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | ACAAI Public Website
    https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/shellfish/
    Allergic reactions to shellfish can affect the skin, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract and/or cardiovascular system. While shellfish allergies most commonly aren’t seen until adulthood, the condition can appear at any age. […] Once a shellfish allergy is identified, the best management is to avoid the food. […] Fortunately, shellfish is an ingredient that is rarely “hidden” in foods. […] Many people with food allergies wonder if their condition is permanent. […] Allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish typically last a lifetime. […] Shellfish is among the most common food allergens. But all food allergies can be dangerous. […] Anaphylaxis can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to the allergen, can worsen quickly, and can be deadly. […] Your allergist will provide you with a written emergency treatment plan that outlines which medications should be administered and when.
  • #57 What you need to know about shellfish allergy diagnosis, treatment
    https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/headlines/what-you-need-to-know-about-shellfish-allergy-diagnosis-treatment/2022/10
    Most people do not outgrow shellfish allergies. Studies show that 46% of people allergic to shrimp outgrew their shrimp allergy in 10 years. […] Although there are many experimental immunotherapy approaches for shellfish allergy, we still need clinical studies with large cohort of shellfish allergic subjects to rule on the efficacies of these treatments. […] One emerging immunotherapy approach is the use of traditional Chinese herbal medicine, such as the FDA-approved herbal formulation FAHF-2. […] Recent preclinical studies highlight the potential of probiotic supplementation to restore oral tolerance against shrimp allergy. […] Anti-inflammatory drugs (such as corticosteroids) and anti-IgE (like omalizumab) are mainstream nonspecific treatments that can be used alone or used in combination with oral immunotherapy for rapid desensitization and to reduce risk of allergic reactions.