Tryptase is an enzyme that is primarily found in mast cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the body’s immune response. Mast cells contain specialized granules filled with various substances, including tryptase. When mast cells are activated, they release tryptase, which can trigger a cascade of events, leading to increased blood vessel permeability, recruitment of other immune cells, and the release of other mediators involved in the inflammatory response.
Key points:
Allergic Reactions: Elevated levels of tryptase can be detected in the blood during allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic response.
Diagnosis and Monitoring: Tryptase levels can be measured in clinical practice to help diagnose and monitor certain conditions. For example, in cases of suspected mast cell disorders or systemic mastocytosis (a rare condition where excessive mast cells accumulate in various tissues), measuring tryptase levels can be useful.
Normal Range: In healthy individuals, the normal range for tryptase in the blood is relatively low. Elevated levels may be an indication of an allergic or inflammatory response, or, in some cases, an underlying medical condition involving mast cells.
Tissue and Mast Cell Types: Tryptase comes in different forms, including alpha and beta tryptase, with alpha tryptase being the most abundant form in humans. Alpha tryptase is primarily found in mast cells, whereas beta tryptase is also found in other tissues.
Treatment: In cases of severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, the treatment often includes medications like adrenaline to counter the effects of tryptase and other inflammatory mediators released during the allergic response.