Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. Shellfish is the third most common food allergy to cause anaphylaxis. However, according to a study being presented at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) in Baltimore, Nov. 7-11, anaphylaxis due to shrimp is rare in children, under 8 percent. Researchers found shrimp allergy in children studied presented moderate reactions, such as rapid skin swelling, itching and redness. They also found that asthma may be a possible risk for anaphylactic reactions in children with shrimp allergy.
Title: Shrimp Allergy Presentation as Anaphylaxis is Rare in Children
Authors: Niti Chokshi, MD, allergist and ACAAI member Carla Davis, MD, allergist and ACAAI fellow
By the Numbers: Anaphylaxis caused by shrimp allergy in adults is 44 percent. The rate in children is 7.8 percent, according to this study. Angioedema (rapid skin swelling) is the most common allergic reaction due to shrimp allergy in children, at a rate of 22 percent. This is followed by skin reactions, such as hives, at 16.9 percent.
Useful Links:
- http://www.acaai.org/allergist/allergies/Types/food-allergies/types/Pages/shellfish-allergy.aspx
- http://twitter.com/ACAAI