Sensitization to king scallop (Pectin maximus) and queen scallop (Chlamys opercularis) proteins.
OBJECTIVE
To report a case of occupational asthma and urticaria due to the queen scallop (Chlamys opercularis) and king scallop (Pectin maximus).


BACKGROUND
A 40-year-old female worked in a shellfish-processing plant, handling king and queen scallops for 5 years. At the time of investigation, she described a 2-year history of work-related respiratory symptoms.


METHODS
Serial peak expiratory flow rate readings were recorded and an OASYS study completed. A workplace visit was undertaken and specific immunoglobulin (IgE) radioallergosorbent (RAST) testing of scallop extracts was performed.


RESULTS
The OASYS study was consistent with occupational asthma. RAST testing demonstrated evidence of specific sensitization (IgE) to queen and king scallop. There was also some cross-reactivity observed with other shellfish (prawns and crabs).


CONCLUSIONS
Workers exposed to aerosols from scallop species are at risk of occupational asthma and require effective respiratory health surveillance.
Barraclough
R M
RM
Health and Safety Laboratory, Harpur Hill, Buxton SK17 9JN, UK. Richard.Barraclough@hsl.gov.uk
Walker
J
J
Hamilton
N
N
Fishwick
D
D
Curran
A D
AD
D000328:Adult; D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational / Q000633:toxicity*; D000818:Animals; D049872:Bivalvia; D005260:Female; D005511:Food Handling; D006801:Humans; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000276:immunology*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects; D010366:Peak Expiratory Flow Rate; D049897:Pectinidae / Q000737:chemistry*; D011506:Proteins / Q000633:toxicity; D011852:Radioallergosorbent Test; D012130:Respiratory Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D012758:Shellfish; D014581:Urticaria / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology
D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational; D011506:Proteins; D007073:Immunoglobulin E