CHANGES IN PLASMA HISTAMINE AND TRYPTASE CONCENTRATIONS FOLLOWING FOOD CHALLENGES IN CHILDREN WITH FOOD ALLERGY

Abstract

This study was undertaken to determine whether the measurement of plasma histamine and tryptase concentrations after food challenges provides an additional predictive marker for the diagnosis of food allergy. In 13 patients who were sensitive to food antigen-specific IgE, 21 oral food challenges were performed. In 5 non-atopic subjects (controls), 5 oral food challenges were performed in the same manner.Plasma histamine concentration was measured by RIA before and 5, 15, 30, 60, 120, 240, min after challenge. Plasma tryptase concentration was measured by RIA before and 60, 120, 240min after challenge.Significant rise in plasma histamine concentrations was observed at 120 and 240min after challenge in patients who had some hypersensitivity reactions. Plasma tryptase levels were significantly increased at 240min after challenge in the same patients.No significant change in plasma histamine and tryptase concentrations was observed after the challenges in the controls.The results suggest the possible relationship between provocation symptoms with food challenge and elevation of plasma histamine and tryptase levels.Plasma histamine and tryptase measurement of concentrations after food challenge may be useful in diagnosis of food allergy.