Anaphylaxis

Department of Immunology

Notes

Anaphylactic Reaction

In the event of either an anaphylactic reaction due to a suspected allergy or an anaesthetic drug reaction, a Mast Cell Tryptase (MCT) is recommended.

These samples are required, which are forwarded to Southmead Hospital:

• First sample: ASAP (ideally within 30 minutes of the reaction)
• Second sample: 1-2 hours post reaction
• Third sample: 24 hours post reaction

Samples should be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible (certainly within 60 minutes of collection). Please state clearly on the request form the timing of the sample in relation to the reaction.

If there are any positive findings, then the patient should be referred to the Clinical Immunology.

To discuss a possible allergic reaction please contact the laboratory who will, if required, refer the details to Clinical Immunology.

In the event of an anaesthetic drug reaction a referral by the Anaesthetist will need to be sent to Allergy in Bristol.

Sample Requirements

Adult

5ml Gold-top SST tube or 3.5ml Rust-top gel tube (Trust users only)

Paediatric

1ml serum sample: 

SEE INFORMATION REGARDING SAMPLE TIMINGS IN 'NOTES' SECTION ABOVE.

Turnaround Times

2 weeks

Reference Ranges

Normal range: 2 - 14µg/l