Mantis shrimp allergy

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Food Science
• Toxicology

Background:

• Crustacean consumption is common, but allergies can cause severe reactions.
• Mantis shrimp (Squilla empusa) is a less commonly reported allergen compared to other shellfish.
• Angioedema, particularly involving the larynx, poses a significant risk.

Observation:

• A 25-year-old female experienced recurrent angioedema (labial, lingual, laryngeal) after consuming mantis shrimp and shellfish pudding.
• Skin prick tests showed positive reactions to mantis shrimp and other crustaceans.
• Serum specific IgE levels were elevated against mantis shrimp, prawn, large prawn, and crab extracts.

Findings:

• Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) immunoblotting identified IgE-binding proteins in mantis shrimp at 46 kDa and 25 kDa.
• Enzyme allergo sorbent test (EAST)-inhibition and immunoblotting-inhibition assays revealed significant cross-reactivity between mantis shrimp allergens and those in prawns and crabs.
• Specific IgE to large prawn tropomyosin was below the detection limit, suggesting other allergens are involved.

Implications:

• This case highlights mantis shrimp as a potential allergen causing severe reactions.
• Cross-reactivity among crustaceans suggests a need for careful dietary advice for individuals with shellfish allergies.
• Further research into specific allergens, like tropomyosin and other proteins, is warranted for accurate diagnosis and management.