Fish allergy often persists into adulthood, particularly in people who are sensitised to the major fish allergen, parvalbumin. A recent study across six European allergy centres highlights the persistence, severity, and reactivity thresholds of fish allergy.
Forty-two people aged 12 to 65 years participated in the study, of whom 71 per cent were confirmed to have fish allergy. While 70 per cent of the participants reported experiencing severe anaphylaxis involving respiratory or cardiovascular symptoms, food challenges revealed predominantly mild systemic reactions (74 per cent) or oropharyngeal symptoms (35 per cent). Severe reactions, such as bronchospasm, were rare (4 per cent) and more likely to be experienced by males.
The study identified an eliciting dose for 10 per cent of the population (ED10) of 0.99 to 2.54 mg of protein, highlighting a low threshold of reactivity. Interestingly, no correlation was found between reaction severity and the eliciting dose.
These findings support the need for large-scale studies and new therapeutic options for those with fish allergy.
Reference: Vera-Berrios, R.N., et al. (2024). Persistence, severity, and reactivity thresholds in fish-allergic patients sensitized to parvalbumin. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice. Available with Open Access at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaip.2024.12.026.
