Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Serum, EDTA plasma Li hep Plasma

Minimum volume required

2 ml plasma/serum

Special requirements

none

Patient preparation

Post suspected anaphylactic reaction

Sample viability

store frozen at -20oC

Turnaround time

7 days

Reference range

2-14 ug/L

Clinical guidance

Isolated tryptase concentrations may be of some value in the assesment of allergic disorders resulting in anaphylaxis, and Mast cell syndromes. Investigation of anaphylactic reactions would be better conducted with serial samples collected within one hour of reaction and subsequently at 3 and 24 hours post reaction. Inherent elevations of plasma tryptase are reported as increasing the risk of severe allergic or anaphylactic reactions to hymenoptera stings. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/tryptase

Notes

Take serial samples in the first hour, 3 hours post and 24 hours after onset of anaphylaxis. Clearly label the sample and request form with date and time to establish the time-line