From the Guidelines
Diagnostic tests for anaphylaxis are not necessary during an acute episode, but after stabilization, serum tryptase levels can be measured to support the diagnosis, ideally within 1-3 hours of symptom onset, as elevated levels are associated with anaphylaxis 1. When considering additional diagnostic tests for anaphylaxis, it's essential to prioritize those that can help confirm the diagnosis and identify potential triggers.
- Serum tryptase levels can be measured, ideally within 1-3 hours of symptom onset, as elevated levels support the diagnosis of anaphylaxis 1.
- Allergen-specific IgE blood tests or skin prick tests can be performed at least 3-4 weeks after the episode to avoid false negatives and identify potential triggers 1.
- A complete blood count might show elevated eosinophils in some cases, which can be helpful in diagnosing anaphylaxis 1.
- Baseline tryptase levels can also be useful to rule out mastocytosis as an underlying condition 1.
- Other tests, such as plasma histamine, 24-h urinary histamine metabolite, plasma-free metanephrine, and urinary vanillylmandelic acid, may be considered in specific situations, but their utility is limited by their timing and sensitivity 1. It's crucial to note that immediate treatment should never be delayed for diagnostic testing during an acute anaphylactic reaction, and these tests should only be performed after the patient has stabilized 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The signs and symptoms associated with anaphylaxis include flushing, apprehension, syncope, tachycardia, thready or unobtainable pulse associated with hypotension, convulsions, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps, involuntary voiding, airway swelling, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, pruritus, urticaria or angioedema, swelling of the eyelids, lips, and tongue. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Diagnostic Tests for Anaphylaxis
- The diagnosis of anaphylaxis is typically based on clinical symptoms, but when the diagnosis is unclear, serum tryptase levels can be obtained to reflect mast cell degranulation 2.
- There are no specific diagnostic tests mentioned in the provided studies that can confirm anaphylaxis, but rather a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests such as serum tryptase levels.
Additional Diagnostic Considerations
- The studies provided focus on the treatment and management of anaphylaxis, rather than diagnostic tests 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is essential to note that anaphylaxis is a clinical diagnosis, and laboratory tests may not always be necessary or available to confirm the diagnosis.
Laboratory Tests
- Serum tryptase levels can be used to support the diagnosis of anaphylaxis, but this test is not specific and can be elevated in other conditions as well 2.
- There is no mention of other laboratory tests that can be used to diagnose anaphylaxis in the provided studies.