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Silverfish Allergy

Aug 25, 2011 | By Trent Jennings

Silverfish, (Lepisma saccharina), are household pests that are often found in cool, damp areas, such as basements. According to Penn State University's Entomology Department, silverfish consume starchy and fibrous items, like cereal, paste, wallpaper and books; the excrement silverfish leave on these items can ruin them. Recent research suggests that silverfish molt and shed their scales, which mix with households dust, and can cause or exacerbate respiratory ailments in humans.

Silverfish Allergens Are Practically Unavoidable

Humans were not known to be allergic to silverfish until late in the 20th century. Silverfish are the most primitive of the Earth's insects but have adapted well to modern, urban environments. The arthropods find homes and food in damp, dark areas of dwellings and workplaces. Silverfish live up to eight years and over this time, molt on several occasions. Molted silverfish scales mix with household dust. According to a 2005 study in, "Current Allergy & Clinical Immunology," the presence of silverfish scales is practically impossible to avoid in a living environment. Research published in a 2007 issue of, "Protein and Peptide Letters" indicated that silverfish allergens are present even in houses where no silverfish have been seen.

Allergic Reactions

A 2007 study in "Protein and Peptide Letters" notes that an allergic reaction can be triggered through three different methods: inhaling silverfish allergens, ingesting such allergens, or by a silverfish bite. According to a report in a 2007 issue of, "International Archives of Allergy and Immunology," a hypersensitivity to silverfish can trigger episodes of allergic rhinitis, which is inflammation of the mucous membrane in your nose, or allergic bronchial asthma. A 2008 study in "Allergologia et Immunopathologia" found that children with respiratory allergies displayed hypersensitivity to silverfish. However, the study fell short of concluding that the silverfish actually caused the allergies, implying instead that the insects were a possible environmental source of the children's respiratory ailments.

Identifying and Treating Silverfish Allergies

The first silverfish allergen, while long-suspected, was not identified until the results of a 2007 study were published in "Protein and Peptide Letters." The allergen, tropomyosin, is similar to those found in shellfish, particularly shrimp. As of 2011, no extract is commercially available to test for silverfish allergies. A treatment specific to the allergy has yet to be formulated. If you suspect a silverfish allergy, consult with your physician to determine the best course for treating your symptoms. Meanwhile, work to eliminate silverfish from your home and reduce the allergen levels.

Getting Rid of Silverfish

You may not realize that silverfish live in your home, and by the time you actually see the insects, an infestation has likely occurred. According to a 2002 "Pest Control Magazine" article, eliminating silverfish from your home can be a long process. The first step is to start drying out damp areas where the bugs feed, breed and lay eggs. Pick up piles of newspapers and magazines -- silverfish food -- or clothes that you may plan to donate. Run a dehumidifier in your basement, and look for leaks in your foundation and roof. A professional exterminator can help you effectively deal with a silverfish infestation but it will be a process that can take several months as your house dries out.

References

Article reviewed by RandyS Last updated on: Aug 25, 2011

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