Tryptase
The tryptase blood test measures a marker released from mast cells during allergic reactions. It is used to investigate anaphylaxis and mast cell–related conditions.
Turnaround time
5 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Tryptase
What is the Tryptase test?
The Tryptase test measures the level of tryptase, an enzyme released by mast cells when they are activated. Mast cells play a key role in allergic and immune responses, particularly during severe reactions.
Tryptase levels rise during systemic allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis and may remain persistently elevated in certain mast cell disorders. Measuring tryptase helps assess whether symptoms are related to mast cell activation rather than other causes.
This test is commonly used in allergy, immunology, and emergency investigations.
Why do I need a Tryptase test?
Severe allergic reactions and mast cell disorders can present with sudden or unexplained symptoms. Identifying mast cell involvement is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
You may need this test if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Suspected anaphylaxis
- Sudden flushing or skin redness
- Unexplained fainting or low blood pressure
- Recurrent hives or swelling
- Gastrointestinal symptoms linked to allergies
- Suspected mast cell activation syndrome
- Investigation after a severe reaction
Testing helps clarify whether mast cells played a role in the reaction.
Benefits of the test
- Key marker of mast cell activation
Identifies involvement in allergic reactions. - Supports anaphylaxis investigation
Helps confirm severe allergic responses. - Useful in mast cell disorders
Detects persistently elevated tryptase levels. - Guides allergy evaluation
Helps direct further specialist testing. - Objective biochemical marker
Provides measurable evidence of mast cell activity. - Simple blood-based testing
Requires only one blood sample. - Widely used in clinical practice
Standard test in allergy and immunology. - Supports long-term monitoring
Useful in follow-up of mast cell conditions.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- A clinician draws a blood sample
- Sample is sent to the laboratory
- Results are issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
- Book a mobile phlebotomist
- Blood sample taken at your home or hotel
- No need to attend a clinic
- Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
Low / normal tryptase
- Tryptase within reference range
- UK standard (typical): <11.4 µg/L
- Suggests no significant mast cell activation
Moderately elevated tryptase
- Levels above reference range
- UK standard (typical): 11.4–20 µg/L
- May indicate recent allergic reaction or mast cell activation
High tryptase
- Markedly elevated levels
- UK standard: >20 µg/L
- Suggests significant mast cell activation or mast cell disorder
Timing of sampling relative to symptoms is important for interpretation.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.