Shellfish allergy diagnosis: gaps and needs

Seafood plays an increasing role in human nutrition worldwide, sustained by international trade of a variety of new seafood products. Increased production and consumption has resulted in more frequent reports of adverse reactions. The most recent prevalence data from Asia highlight seafood as a significant sensitiser in up to 40% of children and 33% of adults. Thousands of different shellfish species are consumed worldwide; however only a few species are utilised in in vitro and in vivo assays to confirm clinical sensitivity. Adding to the diagnostic challenges, over 10 additional seafood allergens have been characterised on a molecular level in the last 10 years alone. Therefore a convincing history and good diagnostic workup is fundamental for the management of adverse and allergic reactions to seafood. This review discusses recent literature in this field.

Current Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Current Allergy and Clinical Immunology

25

1609-3607

N/A

2

7