Test library
Crab Shellfish Allergy Test
This blood test measures IgE antibodies to crab proteins, helping evaluate shellfish allergy reactions such as hives, oral itching, or digestive symptoms after eating crab.
Order Crab Allergy Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Crab Allergy Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $49
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The crab allergy test detects immunoglobulin E antibodies against proteins found in crab. Crab is a crustacean shellfish and a common trigger of food allergy reactions, including hives, swelling, and digestive symptoms. The test is intended for people who suspect reactions after eating crab or other shellfish. A healthcare provider interprets the result with your reaction history.
What this test measures
This test measures allergen-specific immunoglobulin E against crab proteins. Shellfish allergy is common in adults and often persists, and crustaceans such as crab, shrimp, and lobster share the protein tropomyosin, a frequent target of allergic antibodies. Reactions can range from mild itching to more serious symptoms, so assessment should be handled carefully. The immunoassay reports crab-specific antibody levels and an IgE class.
A blood sample is collected by venipuncture at a partner laboratory and analyzed with an immunoassay. Results are reported in kilounits per liter, and total IgE and eosinophil counts may be included for context. Because tropomyosin is shared across crustaceans, a crab result may be accompanied by reactivity to shrimp or lobster. Mollusks such as clams are a separate group, so cross-reactivity between the two groups varies.
People order this test after a suspected reaction to crab or as part of a broader shellfish evaluation. It can help guide dietary decisions and allergy planning with a clinician. The test identifies sensitization rather than confirming a clinical allergy, and it cannot predict reaction severity, so a qualified healthcare provider should interpret the findings.
- Crab-specific IgE antibodies
- Quantitative sIgE concentration reported in kU/L
- Allergen-specific IgE class on the zero to six scale
- Shellfish tropomyosin IgE markers
- Total serum IgE
- Blood eosinophil count
Why people order this test
- Evaluate a suspected reaction after eating crab
- Assess cross-reactivity with other crustaceans
- Support shellfish avoidance planning
- Investigate hives or digestive symptoms after seafood
- Provide objective data for an allergy care discussion
How to prepare
No fasting is required for this allergy blood test, and one blood draw is typically sufficient. Follow the instructions provided by the laboratory and inform the collector about medications, prior reactions, or other shellfish tests you have had.
Understanding your results
Results are generally available within one to three business days. A detected response indicates sensitization to crab proteins, while the clinical meaning depends on your symptoms and exposure. A healthcare provider should interpret the result and advise on any dietary decisions.
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Connecticut
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Florida
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Georgia
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Idaho
Crab Shellfish Allergy Test across Idaho.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are crab and shrimp allergies related?
They can be. Crustaceans share the protein tropomyosin, so people allergic to one may react to others, though this varies by individual.
Does cooking crab remove the allergen?
Cooking does not reliably destroy shellfish allergens, and reactions can occur with cooked crab.
Do I need to fast?
No fasting is required for allergy blood testing unless the laboratory instructs otherwise.
What symptoms suggest a crab allergy?
Hives, swelling, oral itching, or digestive upset after eating crab are possible. Severe reactions require emergency care.
Can a crab allergy develop later in life?
Shellfish allergy can first appear in adulthood, and testing plus a clinical history helps clarify the picture.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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