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Occupational seafood allergy: a review
M F Jeebhay1, T G Robins, S B Lehrer
1Occupational and Environmental Health Research Unit, Department of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Room 1111C, First Floor, Anatomy Building, Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925, South Africa. mjeebhay@cormack.uct.ac.za
Occupational and Environmental Medicine
|August 21, 2001
Summary
Occupational allergies to seafood are increasing in the fishing industry. Inhalation and skin contact with seafood allergens can cause asthma and dermatitis, with crab allergy being well-studied but other seafoods needing more research.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Allergology
- Food science
Background:
- Increased seafood production and consumption correlate with rising allergic reactions.
- Focus on occupational allergy within the fishing and seafood processing sectors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review occupational allergies in the seafood industry.
- To identify common allergens and exposure routes.
- To assess the prevalence and risk factors for seafood-related occupational allergies.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on occupational exposure to seafood allergens.
- Analysis of reported cases of allergic reactions in seafood processing workers.
- Examination of exposure pathways including inhalation and dermal contact.
- Assessment of prevalence rates for occupational asthma and dermatitis.
Main Results:
- Workers are exposed to seafood allergens via aerosolized particles and direct skin contact.
- Prevalence of occupational asthma ranges from 7% to 36%, and protein contact dermatitis from 3% to 11%.
- High molecular weight proteins in seafood are primary triggers for IgE-mediated responses, with cross-reactivity observed.
- Atopy is a supportive risk factor, while skin barrier disruption increases dermatitis risk.
Conclusions:
- Allergic diseases from crab exposure are well-defined; other seafoods require more study.
- Further epidemiological research is needed to fully characterize occupational seafood allergy risks.
- Future research should focus on specific protein antigens, dose-response relationships, exposure routes, and host factors.