Mussel Allergy Test
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Test Code: 602719
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Mussel Allergy Test
This test measures a person's allergic reaction to mussels. The Common Mussel or Blue Mussel is a type of mollusk found in various parts of the world. Shellfish allergies are among the most common type of food allergy. An allergy to shellfish can develop any time and about 60% of shellfish allergies develop during adulthood. Most people who develop a shellfish allergy will remain allergic for the rest of their life. It is typical for someone who is allergic to one type of shellfish to be allergic to others as well. Allergy symptoms can develop anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours after ingestion. Common symptoms include tingling in the mouth, hives, itching, rash, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, flushed skin, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. A severe allergic reaction can sometimes cause anaphylaxis which may be life-threatening.
Food allergies are caused by a reaction in the body's immune system. The body identifies certain substances as harmful and produces IgE antibodies against them. These antibodies trigger the release of histamine which causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction. The severity of the allergy will vary from one person to the next. Blood allergy testing provides numerical results for IgE antibody levels to help determine how severe a reaction a person will have. Positive allergy test results should be discussed with a person's doctor to determine the appropriate follow up.
Mussel allergy testing is typically ordered when a person experiences symptoms of an allergic reaction after consuming mussels. Request A Test also offers a Shellfish Allergy Panel which tests for allergies to other common types of shellfish. For more testing options, please see out Allergy Testing Category.
Results for this test typically take 3-5 business days.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
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