Tryptase · high result
What does a high Tryptase mean?
Short answer
Tryptase is released by mast cells. A level drawn within a few hours of a severe allergic reaction that is well above the person's baseline confirms anaphylaxis; a persistently high baseline (above ~11.5, and especially above 20 ng/mL) raises the question of systemic mastocytosis or hereditary alpha-tryptasemia, an inherited trait carried by roughly 5% of people. Kidney disease and some blood disorders raise it modestly.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
When does this result need same-day care?
- Any episode with throat tightness, breathing difficulty or fainting — emergency care; the tryptase can be drawn afterwards
What is the normal range for Tryptase?
- age 18+: 0.000 – 11.5 ng/mL
Often reflects an active or recent allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), or mast cell disorders.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Tryptase biomarker page.
What are the common causes of high Tryptase?
- Anaphylaxis or severe allergic reaction (transient, peaks 1–2 hours)
- Hereditary alpha-tryptasemia (inherited extra copies of the tryptase gene)
- Systemic mastocytosis, mast cell activation syndrome
- Chronic kidney disease, myeloid blood disorders
- Some parasitic infections
What symptoms go with high Tryptase?
- Flushing, hives, itching, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, lightheadedness with episodes
- Bone pain, unexplained anaphylaxis, or none
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Repeat at baseline (no symptoms for 24 hours) to distinguish an acute spike from a persistently high level
- Allergy/immunology referral if baseline is above ~11.5 ng/mL
- TPSAB1 gene copy testing for hereditary alpha-tryptasemia; bone-marrow evaluation only when mastocytosis is suspected
How do you recheck Tryptase?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tryptase | Test | $71.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
Common questions
My tryptase is 14 but I feel fine. What now?
A mildly high baseline is most often hereditary alpha-tryptasemia, which is common and usually benign. An allergist can confirm with a gene-copy test and explain what it means for anaphylaxis risk.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.