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Crawfish-Specific IgE Antibody, Total

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A blood test that measures IgE antibodies directed against crawfish, which may indicate an allergic sensitization to crawfish.

Quick summary

["Crawfish-specific IgE can help identify possible crawfish allergy, but it must be interpreted with your symptoms and medical history."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61223-4
Short code
Crawfish IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Crawfish IgE/IgE total %
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This blood test measures IgE antibodies your immune system makes in response to crawfish proteins. It is a type of allergy antibody test.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it if you have a history of hives, swelling, wheezing, vomiting, or another reaction after eating crawfish. It may also be used when evaluating a suspected shellfish allergy.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory for crawfish-specific IgE. The result is reported as an antibody level or according to the laboratory's classification system.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, and you can generally continue your medicines unless your clinician tells you otherwise. Tell the clinician about your symptoms, allergies, and any medicines that may affect allergic reactions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Detectable crawfish-specific IgE suggests that your immune system has become sensitized to crawfish. A positive result does not by itself prove that you will have an allergic reaction, because some people have antibodies without symptoms. The result should be interpreted alongside your exposure history, symptoms, and sometimes other allergy testing.

Short name

Crawfish IgE

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I am allergic to crawfish?
It indicates allergic sensitization, but it does not always mean a clinically significant allergy. Your clinician will consider whether the result matches your symptoms and any prior reactions.
Is this the same as a total IgE test?
No. This test targets IgE antibodies specific to crawfish, whereas a total IgE test measures the overall amount of IgE in the blood.
Should I avoid crawfish if the test is positive?
Discuss the result with your clinician before making major changes to your diet. If you have previously had a severe reaction, avoid the suspected allergen and seek medical advice about an allergy evaluation and an emergency plan.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy