Do Shellfish Allergies Run in Families?

Can allergies be inherited? Your tendency to develop shellfish allergies is influenced by both genetics and geography. Children with a family history of this type of allergy are more prone to develop it themselves.

Why am I suddenly allergic to shellfish?

Shellfish allergies are most often the immune system's response to a protein found in shellfish muscles called tropomyosin. Antibodies trigger the release of chemicals such as histamines to attack the tropomyosin. The histamine release leads to a number of symptoms that can range from mild to life-threatening.

How likely is it to develop a shellfish allergy?

Anyone can develop a shellfish allergy — even if you've had shellfish before without any problems. Although it can occur at any age, it appears more often in adults than in children. About 60% of people who have a shellfish allergy first get symptoms as an adult.