ImmunoCAP Tryptase

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ImmunoCAP Tryptase is an in vitro test for the quantitative measurement of  Tryptase concentration in human serum.
 
Increased Tryptase levels in serum indicate (1):
  • Anaphylaxis due to drugs, insect sting and food
  • Mastocytosis

Tryptase also increases in nasal fluid in (2-3):

  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Allergen challenge in patients with allergic rhinitis

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 (1).

Tryptase is released into the circulation after a patient suffers an anaphylactic reaction caused by e.g. drugs, insect venom or food. This increase helps to identify and assess the extent of the reaction.

References:

    1. Hogan AD, Schwartz LB. Markers of mast cell degranulation. Methods 1997; 13: 43-52.
    2. Rasp G, Hochstrasser K. Tryptase in nasal fluid is a useful marker of allergic rhinitis. Allergy 1993; 48: 72-74.
    3. Rasp G, Enander I. Mast cell activation in vivo measured by nasal fluid tryptase.  XVI Eur Congr Allergology Clin Immunol, ECACI 95.