Serum or plasma concentration of histamine (substance concentration)
This test measures the amount of histamine, a chemical released by your body during allergic reactions or certain conditions.
["Helps assess allergic responses or histamine-related disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72959-0
- Short code
- raNITIdine (neut) IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- raNITIdine (neut) IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like hives, itching, swelling, or digestive issues that suggest an allergic reaction or histamine intolerance. It could 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 from a vein in your arm or a urine sample collected over a period (if specified). If you’re taking antihistamines, ask your provider if you should stop them temporarily.
What to Expect During the Test
For blood tests, a healthcare professional will insert a small needle into your arm to draw a small amount of serum or plasma. For urine tests, you may collect a sample over 24 hours or at specific times. The process is quick and typically painless.
What the Results Mean
Results may indicate elevated histamine levels if you have symptoms linked to allergies or histamine disorders. Lower-than-expected levels might suggest other underlying conditions. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High histamine levels can trigger allergic reactions, digestive issues, or skin rashes. Low levels may not directly indicate a problem but could be part of a broader evaluation for metabolic or genetic disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Short name
Histamine Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What causes histamine levels to change?
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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