What does ImmunoCAP Tryptase measure?
ImmunoCAP Tryptase measures the level of tryptase released by mast cells into serum.
Mast cells play a key role in allergic reactions and increase in numbers under inflammatory conditions. When activated, they release a variety of mediators that lead to the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, such as systemic anaphylaxis. These mediators include tryptase and histamine.
What is the clinical utility of the test?
Tryptase is released into the circulation after a patient suffers an anaphylactic reaction caused by drugs, insect venom or food. This increase helps identify and assess the extent of the reaction.
ImmunoCAP Tryptase measurements of samples from healthy individuals and samples from anaphylactic patients showed a clear separation of the two groups.
Increased tryptase levels in serum indicate:
Tryptase levels (or concentrations) also increase in nasal fluid in:
What test values should I expect?
Healthy individuals, aged 2-74 years, showed a geometric mean of 3.8 µg/l and a 95th percentile of 11.4 µg/l (2).
Elevated levels of tryptase can usually be detected up to three to six hours after the anaphylactic reaction. They return to normal within 12-14 hours after release.
Samples should preferably be collected between 15 minutes and 3 hours after the suspected event causing mast cell activation.