Question 1

What is Cross-Reactivity Allergy?

Accepted Answer

Cross-reactivity allergy occurs when your immune system reacts to similar proteins found in different substances, causing allergic reactions to multiple related items even if you have only been directly exposed to one. It is caused by IgE antibodies that recognize and bind to structurally similar proteins across different allergens, particularly common with shellfish, tree nuts, and certain fruits. The Allergy-Shellfish Panel is the most important test for diagnosing cross-reactivity patterns among shellfish allergens.

Question 2

What causes cross-reactivity allergy?

Accepted Answer

Cross-reactivity allergy is caused by IgE antibodies that mistakenly recognize structurally similar proteins across different allergens. When your immune system develops antibodies against a specific protein in one substance, such as tropomyosin in shrimp, these same antibodies can bind to nearly identical proteins found in other shellfish like crab, lobster, or crawfish. This protein similarity triggers the same allergic response across multiple foods or substances, even if you have only been directly exposed to one of them.

Question 3

What is the best test for cross-reactivity allergy?

Accepted Answer

The Allergy-Shellfish Panel is the most important test for cross-reactivity allergy because it measures specific IgE antibodies against multiple shellfish allergens simultaneously, revealing which proteins trigger your immune response. This comprehensive panel identifies cross-reactivity patterns by testing for crustacean allergens including shrimp, crab, lobster, and other shellfish varieties that share similar protein structures. By testing multiple related allergens at once rather than individually, this panel creates a complete picture of your cross-reactive sensitivities, helping you understand which foods you must avoid to prevent dangerous allergic reactions.

Question 4

When should I get tested for cross-reactivity allergy?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have experienced an allergic reaction to one food and want to know if you are also allergic to related foods, if you have had reactions to foods you have never knowingly eaten before, or if you have a known allergy to shellfish, tree nuts, or fruits and need to understand your full allergy profile. Testing is especially important before trying new foods within the same category as your known allergen, or if you have experienced unexplained allergic symptoms after meals containing multiple ingredients.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of cross-reactivity allergy?

Accepted Answer

Cross-reactivity allergy symptoms are identical to typical food allergy symptoms and can range from mild to life-threatening. You might notice hives, itching, or swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat shortly after eating the trigger food. Other common symptoms include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, wheezing, nasal congestion, dizziness, or lightheadedness. In severe cases, cross-reactive allergens can trigger anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal reaction that causes a sudden drop in blood pressure, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness requiring immediate emergency treatment.

Question 6

Who is at risk for cross-reactivity allergy?

Accepted Answer

Anyone with an existing food allergy is at risk for cross-reactivity, especially those allergic to shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, or certain fruits and vegetables. People with birch pollen allergy often develop oral allergy syndrome with cross-reactivity to apples, cherries, and hazelnuts. Individuals with latex allergy may react to bananas, avocados, and kiwi due to similar proteins. Those with a family history of allergies or other allergic conditions like asthma, eczema, or hay fever have an increased likelihood of developing cross-reactive food allergies throughout their lifetime.

Question 7

What happens if cross-reactivity allergy is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated cross-reactivity allergy can lead to repeated allergic reactions that may worsen over time, with each exposure potentially causing more severe symptoms than the last. Without proper diagnosis and allergen identification, you risk accidentally consuming cross-reactive foods and experiencing dangerous reactions including anaphylaxis, which can be fatal without immediate epinephrine treatment. Chronic exposure to allergens can also contribute to ongoing inflammation, nutritional deficiencies from eliminating too many or too few foods, anxiety around eating, and diminished quality of life due to fear of unexpected allergic reactions.

Question 8

Can cross-reactivity allergy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, cross-reactivity allergy can be effectively diagnosed with blood tests that measure allergen-specific IgE antibodies in your bloodstream. These tests identify which particular proteins trigger your immune response by testing for antibodies against multiple related allergens simultaneously. Blood testing is particularly valuable for cross-reactivity because comprehensive panels can reveal your reactivity profile across an entire family of foods at once, showing which specific substances you must avoid. Unlike skin prick tests, blood tests are safer for people with severe allergies and can be performed regardless of current medications or skin conditions.

Question 9

How is cross-reactivity allergy treated?

Accepted Answer

Cross-reactivity allergy is treated primarily through strict avoidance of all identified allergens that trigger your immune response. Once testing identifies your cross-reactive allergens, you will need to eliminate all related foods from your diet and carefully read ingredient labels to avoid hidden sources. Your healthcare provider will prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector to carry at all times for emergency treatment of severe reactions. Some people benefit from working with an allergist for oral immunotherapy, which gradually desensitizes the immune system, though this treatment is not suitable for everyone and requires careful medical supervision.

Question 10

How can I prevent cross-reactivity allergy?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot prevent cross-reactivity allergy from developing if you already have food allergies, you can prevent allergic reactions by identifying all cross-reactive allergens through comprehensive testing and avoiding them completely. Always inform restaurants about your allergies, carry your epinephrine auto-injector, and wear medical alert identification. When introducing new foods related to your known allergens, do so only under medical supervision. Maintaining a food diary helps identify unexpected cross-reactions, and working with an allergist ensures you avoid unnecessary dietary restrictions while staying safe from true cross-reactive allergens.

Question 11

What can I do at home for cross-reactivity allergy?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can manage cross-reactivity allergy by maintaining a completely allergen-free kitchen with separate utensils and cookware if family members eat your trigger foods. Keep your epinephrine auto-injector accessible at all times and ensure family members know how to use it in emergencies. Create a detailed list of all foods you must avoid and share it with anyone preparing your meals. Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet identifying your specific allergies. While no home remedies can treat allergic reactions, taking antihistamines as directed by your doctor may help with mild symptoms, though they are never a substitute for epinephrine during severe reactions.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Cross-Reactivity Allergy Blood Test

What is Cross-Reactivity Allergy?

What causes cross-reactivity allergy?

What is the best test for cross-reactivity allergy?

When should I get tested for cross-reactivity allergy?

References

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