Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (serum)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 3-5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Fast, accurate results using advanced Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA) technology
- No doctor referral needed - order online and visit any local lab
- Avoid skin testing - ideal if you have skin conditions or take antihistamines
- Quantitative measurement helps determine severity of sensitization to clam proteins
- Convenient screening before trying shellfish or confirming suspected reactions
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing allergic symptoms after eating clams or shellfish
- People with unexplained allergic reactions who consume shellfish regularly
- Those with family history of food allergies seeking proactive screening
- Patients with existing shellfish allergies wanting to identify specific triggers
- Anyone considering immunotherapy who needs baseline sensitization levels
- Health-conscious consumers wanting private allergy assessment without specialist visits
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online - No appointment needed, just select your preferred lab location
- Visit lab for blood draw - Quick venipuncture, takes just a few minutes
- Get results - Secure online access to result within 3-5 business days.
FAQ
What does this test measure? IgE antibodies specific to clam proteins that indicate allergic sensitization.
How accurate is this blood test? IgE testing has 70-90% sensitivity and specificity when combined with clinical symptoms.
Can I eat clams if my test is negative? Negative results suggest low risk, but consult your doctor if you've had previous reactions.
What if I get a positive result? Avoid clams, carry emergency medications, and follow up with an allergist for management planning.
Do I need to stop medications before testing? Antihistamines may affect results - consult your healthcare provider about timing.
Is this different from other shellfish allergy tests? Yes, this specifically tests clam proteins, while shellfish panels test multiple species together.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to clam proteins in your blood to diagnose clam shellfish allergy. When you're allergic to clams, your immune system produces these antibodies that trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals, causing allergic symptoms (Mayo Clinic 2024). The test helps establish a definitive diagnosis, identify the specific allergen causing your symptoms, and guide treatment decisions including potential immunotherapy.
Who would benefit from this test?
This test is valuable for anyone experiencing allergic reactions suspected to be triggered by clam consumption, particularly those who regularly eat shellfish or have unexplained allergic symptoms. It's especially useful for people with existing shellfish allergies who want to identify specific triggers for better avoidance strategies. Health-conscious consumers using direct-to-consumer services benefit from the convenience and privacy of testing without requiring specialist referrals (Walk-In Lab 2025).
When should I order Clam Allergy IgE Test?
Order this test when you experience symptoms of allergic reaction after clam exposure, or as part of comprehensive allergy evaluation if you have a history of shellfish allergies or risk factors for allergic disease. It's also recommended for monitoring sensitization levels before starting immunotherapy or when symptoms change over time.
How do I interpret the results?
IgE Level < 0.10 kU/L
- What it means: Negative – No sensitization detected
- Typical action: Clam consumption likely safe
IgE Level 0.10 – 0.69 kU/L
- What it means: Borderline – Minimal sensitization
- Typical action: Monitor for symptoms, possible tolerance
IgE Level 0.70 – 3.49 kU/L
- What it means: Positive – Moderate sensitization
- Typical action: Avoid clams, carry antihistamines
IgE Level 3.50 – 17.49 kU/L
- What it means: High – Strong sensitization
- Typical action: Strict avoidance, consider epinephrine
IgE Level ≥ 17.50 kU/L
- What it means: Very High – Severe sensitization
- Typical action: Complete avoidance, emergency action plan
Results ≥0.70 kU/L (Class 2 and above) indicate positive sensitization, but clinical correlation with symptoms and medical history is essential for accurate diagnosis (Mayo Clinic Laboratories 2024).
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider about any antihistamines or immunotherapy treatments, as these may affect results. Continue your regular diet and medications unless specifically instructed otherwise by your doctor.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial screening: Once, unless symptoms develop
- Monitoring known allergy: Every 2–3 years or as symptoms change
- During immunotherapy: As directed by allergist (typically annually)
- After severe reaction: Retest after 6–12 months
- Childhood allergies: Retest every 2–3 years to assess outgrowth
Why early detection matters
Shellfish allergy affects approximately 2% of the U.S. population and is one of the most common food allergies (Mayo Clinic 2024). Early diagnosis and proper avoidance significantly reduce emergency visits for anaphylaxis and improve quality of life while minimizing healthcare costs associated with uncontrolled allergic reactions. Unlike some childhood food allergies, shellfish allergies typically persist into adulthood and can cause severe, life-threatening reactions.
Related tests you may consider
Shrimp Allergy IgE Blood Test - Measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to help detect a food allergy to shrimp.
Immunoglobulin E Blood Test, Total, IgE - Measures the total IgE antibody levels in the blood to assess the likelihood of experiencing allergic reactions.
Allergen Profile Shellfish Blood Test - Measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to help detect an allergy to various common shellfish.
