Shellfish allergy diagnosis -gaps and needs

摘要

Seafood plays an increasing role in human nutrition worldwide, sustained by international trade of a variety of riew 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.