Radioimmunoassay for plasma histamine: a study of false positive and false negative values

Abstract

In order to achieve a correct diagnosis of drug anaphylaxis using a radioimmunoassay devoid of interferences, we have studied factors leading to false positive or false negative values of plasma histamine. Different steps in sample collection were studied systematically in 30 normal volunteers. False positive values were found in haemolysed samples, with histamine concentrations being correlated with haemoglobin concentrations, and where plasma was aspirated from the white-cell layer. There was no significant increase when a tourniquet or vacuum tubes were used, or when blood tubes were left at 4 degrees C overnight. In 12 patients who experienced an anaphylactic reaction, histamine disappeared from blood 10 times more slowly than expected. False negative values were found in two pregnant women and one heparinized patient. Histamine was remarkably stable in vitro in blood or plasma samples, whereas it disappeared rapidly when plasma from a pregnant woman or a heparinized patient was added to the sample. We conclude that false positive and false negative values are rare when using this radioimmunoassay.

Histamine Blood Concentration in Ischemic Heart Disease Patients

“…Previous studies have shown that half-life of plasma histamine and plasma troponin I measures in minutes and days, respectively [47, 48]. Because of troponin long half-life, it is not useful for detection of early reinfarction, which is why the rise of histamine blood concentration may be a parameter for detection of such events.…”

Brown Norway Rat Ovalbumin‐Specific Immunoglobulin E Antibodies Increase the Human Basophil Expression of CD63 Marker

“…LHR test. Blood (1 ml) was collected through the tail vein in eight IRs and six NIRs on D 21 , following immunization in accordance with the literature [20]. Histamine radioimmunologic assay (RIA) was performed using the method of Immunotech (Luminy, France, sensitivity 0.2 nM with a negligible cross-reaction with histamine metabolites and histidine).…”

Adverse reactions to neuromuscular blocking agents

“…Histamine should be assayed within the first hour of a suspected anaphylactic reaction, and in mild cases, only early measurements should be increased [32]. Histamine assay should be avoided during pregnancy (particularly near term) and in patients receiving high doses of heparin, because of a high rate of false negativity.…”