Histamine
A central mediator of allergic and mast cell reactions, behind flushing, hives, and food intolerance symptoms.
Consider this test if:
- Recurrent flushing, hives, itching, or unexplained low blood pressure that points toward mast cell activation
- Investigating an anaphylactic or severe allergic reaction alongside tryptase
- Symptoms like headache, diarrhea, flushing, or congestion after histamine-rich foods or alcohol
- Working up suspected histamine intolerance or a mast cell activation disorder
- Reactions after eating fish that may not have been stored properly
- HSA/FSA eligible
- Typical results in 3-5 days · Reviewed by a real clinician
- Drawn at a CLIA/CAP-accredited lab near you ·
Pre-test considerations
Timing is the most important factor: plasma histamine rises and falls quickly, so a sample drawn during or within an hour or two of symptoms is far more informative than one collected after they pass. Antihistamines and other medications can influence symptoms and results, so note what you take and when. The specimen must be handled carefully (plasma separated and frozen promptly), and grossly hemolyzed or lipemic samples are rejected. Fasting is generally not required, but recent intake of histamine-rich foods or alcohol is worth noting.
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What this test is for
Histamine is a small molecule released mainly by mast cells and basophils during allergic and inflammatory reactions, and it drives the familiar effects of an allergic response: blood vessel dilation, smooth muscle contraction, increased gastric acid, and a faster heart rate. This test measures histamine in plasma, where levels rise during and shortly after mast cell activation, including anaphylaxis. Elevated histamine helps confirm that symptoms such as flushing, hives, itching, headache, diarrhea, low blood pressure, or wheezing are driven by mast cell or basophil degranulation rather than another cause. It is also relevant to histamine intolerance, where low activity of histamine-degrading enzymes lets dietary histamine from aged cheese, alcohol, and poorly stored fish accumulate and provoke symptoms. Plasma histamine is sensitive but rises and falls quickly and is less specific to mast cells than tryptase, so timing of the draw relative to symptoms matters a great deal.
What to expect
- 1 Book instantly
Click, book, done. Choose a convenient lab location near you. Transparent, up-front pricing.
- 2 Quick lab visit
Testing to fit your busy schedule, usually 15 minutes or less. Walk-in and appointments available.
- 3 Typical results in 3-5 days
Your results post straight to your dashboard as soon as the lab completes them.
- 4 Expert guidance
Included with Mito membership. A clinician reviews your results and your personalized action plan follows, with clear next steps.
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Frequently asked questions
View all FAQsHow does pricing work?
Every test shows the member price next to the standard non-member price, so you can see what membership saves you. The member price is our cost — covering the lab and what it takes to run the service — never a profit on the test itself; Mito makes its money on the $9 membership, not on marking up your tests. Membership is $9/mo, and you still pay the lab’s order fee. Prices are itemized before you pay, with no hidden fees.
Where do I get tested?
Choose a partner lab (Quest, Labcorp, or BioReference) at checkout. If your cart spans multiple tests, we consolidate the whole order onto a single lab so you only make one visit.
Is this eligible for HSA/FSA?
Yes. This test is HSA/FSA eligible, and you can pay with your HSA/FSA card at checkout.
When will I get my results?
Your results post to your dashboard once your lab completes them, then a clinician reviews them and your full analysis and personalized action plan (with clear next steps) follow. Turnaround varies by test: specialty assays and at-home kits take longer, and each test shows its expected turnaround before you buy.
Do I need a doctor’s order?
No. Mito provides the lab order for you, so you can book and get tested without a separate doctor visit.
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