Elevated Tryptase Levels | Mast Cell Disorders | Praana Center
At Praana Center for Asthma and Allergy, we help patients understand what an elevated tryptase level means—and just as importantly, what it does not mean.
What Is a Tryptase Test?
A serum tryptase test measures activity from mast cells, immune cells that play a key role in allergic reactions, asthma, hives, and anaphylaxis.
Most laboratories consider tryptase levels below ~11 ng/mL to be normal. Some patients are found to have mildly elevated levels, often between 12–20 ng/mL.
What Does an Elevated Tryptase Mean?
A mildly elevated tryptase does not automatically indicate a serious disease.
The most common cause is hereditary alpha-tryptasemia (HαT), a genetic trait that results in higher baseline tryptase levels and more sensitive mast cells. This condition is far more common than systemic mastocytosis and is not cancer.
In some cases, elevated tryptase may also reflect mast cell activation, especially if the test was drawn during or shortly after an allergic reaction.
Possible Symptoms
Some people with elevated tryptase have no symptoms at all. Others may experience:
Chronic hives or itching
Flushing or warmth of the skin
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as reflux, abdominal pain, or diarrhea
Lightheadedness or fatigue
Medication, food, or insect sting reactions
Strong or prolonged allergic responses
How We Evaluate Elevated Tryptase
At Praana Center for Asthma and Allergy, we use an evidence-based, stepwise approach:
Confirming whether the level represents a true baseline elevation
Reviewing symptoms suggestive of mast cell activation
Considering genetic testing for hereditary alpha-tryptasemia when appropriate
Reserving advanced testing for patients with specific clinical red flags
Our goal is to provide clarity while avoiding unnecessary invasive testing.
Personalized Treatment & Management
Management focuses on symptom control and prevention. Depending on your symptoms, this may include:
Daily or as-needed antihistamines
Medications to reduce mast cell mediator effects
Trigger identification and avoidance strategies
Emergency preparedness, including epinephrine when indicated
Most patients experience significant improvement with the right plan in place.
A mildly elevated tryptase level is often a benign finding. Many patients live full, healthy lives with simple, proactive management.
Our role is to help you understand your results, reduce uncertainty, and create a plan that keeps you safe and comfortable.
Concerned about an elevated tryptase level or unexplained allergic symptoms?
Schedule a consultation with Praana Center for Asthma and Allergy to receive expert, individualized care.