Synonyms

Mast cell tryptase

Clinical Indications

Plasma tryptase levels are used in investigation of suspected adverse drug reaction (see adverse drug reaction protocol). Plasma tryptase levels are also useful in diagnosis and monitoring of urticaria pigmentosa (cutaneous mastocytosis) and systemic mastocytosis.
Recent evidence suggests that tryptase may also be useful in management of asthma patients with moderate to severe Type 1 (anaphylactic) allergy reactions.

Test Includes

Plasma tryptase

Request Form

Combined Pathology Blood form (Yellow/Black). 

Availability

Analysed by referral laboratory if specific criteria met.

Specific Criteria

Requested by Consultant Dermatologist for diagnosis or monitoring of urticaria pigmentosa on an annual basis. Specific requests from Dr Skibinska in asthma patients.

Turnaround Time

1 month

Specimen

Plasma

Volume

2 ml

Container

Pink top (EDTA) blood tubes

Lab. Handling

Separate and store at -20°C, send all samples and documentation by post.

Causes for Rejection 

Not meeting specific criteria for analysis. Unlabelled sample. 

Reference Range

2.0 - 14.0 ug/L