Mast Cell Tryptase
Immunology
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
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This information was last updated on 19 August 2026