Screening of Anisakis-Related Allergies and Associated Factors in a Mediterranean Community Characterized by High Seafood Consumption
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Dietary changes expose consumers to risks from Anisakis larvae in seafood, leading to parasitic diseases and allergies. Anisakis is recognized by EFSA as a significant hazard, with potential oncogenic implications. Diagnostic advancements, like the Basophil Activation Test (BAT), enhance sensitivity and accuracy in identifying Anisakis sensitization, complementing traditional IgE tests. We conducted a cross-sectional study on patients with allergic symptoms from April 2021 to April 2023 at two outpatient clinics in western Sicily. Our goal was to assess the prevalence of Anisakis-related allergies and to identify risk profiles using specific Anisakis IgE and the BAT, especially in regions with high raw fish consumption. The study evaluated specific Anisakis IgE as a screening tool for Anisakis sensitization, using questionnaires, blood samples, and immuno-allergology analyses. Anisakis-specific IgE values were compared with the BAT results, with statistical analyses including Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression. The results showed an 18.5% seroprevalence of Anisakis IgE, while the BAT as a second-level test showed 4.63%, indicating the BAT’s superior specificity and accuracy. The study highlighted the importance of the BAT in diagnosing Anisakis sensitization, especially in cases of cross-reactivity with Ascaris and tropomyosin. The findings confirm the BAT’s exceptional specificity in identifying Anisakis sensitization and support using Anisakis-specific IgE for population-based risk profiling. The BAT can effectively serve as a confirmatory test.
Source: Foods
Authors: Santo Fruscione, Maria Barrale, Maurizio Zarcone, Davide Alba, Barbara Ravazzolo, Miriam Belluzzo, Rosa Onida, Gaetano Cammilleri, Antonella Costa, Vincenzo Ferrantelli, Alessandra Savatteri, Daniele Domenico De Bella, Salvatore Pipitone, Alida D’Atria, Alessia Pieri, Fabio Tramuto, Claudio Costantino, Carmelo Massimo Maida, Giorgio Graziano, Marialetizia Palomba, Simonetta Mattiucci, Ignazio Brusca, Walter Mazzucco
Language: English
Subfield: Immunology and Allergy
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,296
Funder: Ministero della Salute
Award: G4984829953
OpenAlex ID: W4402278784