Histamine Test for Allergies, Intolerance & Histamine Disorders

A histamine test assesses the level of histamine, a chemical involved in allergic reactions and stomach acid production. It helps diagnose conditions like allergies, intolerances, and histamine-related disorders.

Histamine Test

Here are the basic details of the Histamine Test.

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

Histamine Test Means

A histamine test measures the concentration of histamine, a chemical released by mast cells during allergic reactions and inflammation.

• It is used to help diagnose conditions like anaphylaxis, mastocytosis, and mast cell activation by confirming the presence of elevated histamine levels.
• The test is often performed when individuals experience symptoms such as flushing, swelling, or low blood pressure associated with severe allergic reactions.
• Anaphylaxis is characterized by a rapid increase in blood histamine levels, usually within minutes of symptom onset.
• Elevated histamine and tryptase levels can persist in individuals with mastocytosis, a rare condition involving abnormal mast cell proliferation.
• The test may involve blood samples, with specific timing and preparation instructions, and is essential for diagnosing and managing conditions related to histamine release and mast cell activation.

Histamine Test Purpose

The purpose of the Histamine Test is to:

• Detects histamine levels in blood or urine.
• Diagnoses anaphylactic reactions and allergies.
• Identifies mast cell disorders like mastocytosis.
• Confirms life-threatening allergic responses.
• Assists in diagnosing mast cell activation disorders.
• Aids in the assessment of allergic conditions.

Histamine Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the Histamine Test.

Before Test

• No specific dietary or fasting requirements.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking.
• Discuss the timing of the sample collection with your healthcare provider, especially if you suspect an allergic reaction.

During Test

• A blood sample is typically collected from a vein in your arm.

After Test

• Resume normal activities immediately.
• Consult your healthcare provider for test results and any necessary follow-up.

Histamine Test Procedure

Here is the basic Histamine Test Procedure.

• Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider for a histamine test.
• Discuss any medication restrictions or specific instructions with your healthcare provider.
• Arrive at the healthcare facility or laboratory at the scheduled time.
• Depending on your healthcare provider's guidance, provide a blood sample or a 24-hour urine collection sample.
• For a blood sample, a healthcare professional will insert a needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood.
• The collected sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
• Await your test results, which will be provided by your healthcare provider after they become available.

Histamine Test Result

Here's how to interpret a histamine test result in a simple way.

• Normal Histamine Levels: If your histamine level is less than 1 ng/mL, this is considered normal. There's no cause for concern regarding histamine levels in your blood.
• Low Histamine Levels: If your histamine level is between 1 and 11 ng/mL, it's below the optimal range. This might be relevant for discussions with your healthcare provider, as it could indicate lower-than-ideal histamine levels.
• Optimal Histamine Levels: An optimal histamine level falls within the range of 12-127 ng/mL. This range is considered healthy and balanced for histamine in your blood.

Histamine Test Normal Range

The optimal range for a histamine test is 12–127 ng/mL. Normal plasma levels of histamine are typically less than 1 ng/mL. Here is the normal range of the Histamine Test.

Histamine Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the Histamine Test.

Histamine Test High Levels

Here are the potential causes of high histamine level.

Histamine Test Low Levels

Low histamine levels are less common but can be associated with specific conditions. Here are the potential causes of low histamine levels.

Specimen Requirements For Histamine Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the Histamine Test.

Histamine Test is Safe?

Histamine tests are safe and pose minimal risks to patients.

• They typically involve a blood sample or a 24-hour urine collection, which are routine procedures.
• The benefits of diagnosing conditions related to histamine levels outweigh any minor discomfort associated with the test.

When Do You Get Histamine Test Results? 

• Histamine test results are typically available within 1-2 days.
• The exact timeframe may vary depending on the laboratory or healthcare facility where the test is conducted.

Histamine Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of the Histamine Test.

• Histamine testing may not always confirm the presence of anaphylaxis or mastocytosis, as some individuals may not show elevated histamine levels during these conditions.
• The timing of sample collection is crucial, and a test drawn too late may yield normal results.
• Normal histamine levels do not exclude anaphylaxis or mastocytosis as a diagnosis, as some individuals can still have these conditions without elevated histamine levels.
• Histamine can be elevated in various conditions, making it less specific for certain diagnoses.
• The test may not identify the underlying cause of histamine elevation, such as specific allergens or triggers.
• False-positive or false-negative results can occur.

Histamine Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the Histamine Test.

• Exposure to allergens or substances that trigger allergic reactions
• History of allergies, asthma, or other allergic conditions
• Mastocytosis or mast cell activation disorders
• Anaphylactic reactions to specific triggers, such as foods or insect stings
• Medications or drugs that stimulate histamine release or block its metabolism
• Consuming histamine-rich foods or spoiled fish (scombroid fish poisoning)

Doctor Recommendations After Histamine Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the Histamine Test.

Histamine Test Price

Here are the estimated Histamine Test Prices in India with different top cities:

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, Histamine Test is essential for diagnosing and managing conditions related to histamine levels, such as allergies, mast cell disorders, and anaphylaxis. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• Histamine - Wikipedia [1].
• Biochemistry, Histamine - StatPearls - NIH [2].