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Histamine, Serum or Plasma Concentration (Quantitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of histamine, a chemical produced by your body that plays a role in allergic reactions and inflammation. It helps assess conditions like allergic disorders, mast cell activation syndromes, or certain food intolerances.

Quick summary

["Histamine levels can help diagnose or monitor allergic reactions or related conditions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7408-8
Short code
Histamine Ext BasoBnd Ab Qn
Synonyms
Histamine Ext BasoBnd Ab Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
lhr
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like hives, itching, swelling, or digestive issues that suggest an allergic reaction or histamine intolerance. It may also be used to evaluate conditions like mastocytosis or other histamine-related disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a blood draw (serum or plasma) or, less commonly, a urine sample. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are interpreted based on your symptoms and medical history. Elevated histamine levels may indicate an overactive immune response or mast cell disorder, while lower levels might suggest a deficiency or metabolic issue. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.

Common Conditions Linked to Histamine Testing

This test is often used to diagnose or support a diagnosis of conditions such as histamine intolerance, mastocytosis, or certain types of food allergies. It can also help assess chronic urticaria (hives) or other allergic symptoms that don’t respond to standard treatments.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Histamine Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes high histamine levels in the blood or urine?
High histamine levels can result from genetic disorders (like mastocytosis), certain medications, or conditions that disrupt histamine breakdown (e.g., diamine oxidase deficiency). Dietary factors, such as fermented foods or alcohol, may also trigger elevated histamine in sensitive individuals.
What are the typical symptoms of histamine intolerance?
Symptoms of histamine intolerance may include flushing, headaches, digestive issues (nausea, diarrhea), nasal congestion, or skin reactions like hives or itching. These symptoms often worsen after eating certain foods or consuming alcohol.
How long does it take to get test results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will explain the findings and next steps during your follow-up visit.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy