Mast cell tryptase: A review of its physiology and clinical significance

Abstract

Mast cells, which are granulocytes found in peripheral tissue, play a central role in inflammatory and immediate allergic reactions. β-Tryptase is a neutral serine protease and is the most abundant mediator stored in mast cell granules. The release of β-tryptase from the secretory granules is a characteristic feature of mast cell degranulation. While its biological function has not been fully clarified, mast cell β-tryptase has an important role in inflammation and serves as a marker of mast cell activation. β -Tryptase activates the protease activated receptor type 2. It is involved in airway homeostasis, vascular relaxation and contraction, gastrointestinal smooth muscle activity and intestinal transport, and coagulation. Serum mast cell β-tryptase concentration is increased in anaphylaxis and in other allergic conditions. It is increased in systemic mastocytosis and other haematological conditions. Serum β -tryptase measurements can be used to distinguish mast cell-dependent reactions from other systemic disturbances such as cardiogenic shock, which can present with similar clinical manifestations. Increased β -tryptase levels are highly suggestive of an immunologically mediated reaction but may also occur following direct mast cell activation. Patients with increased mast cell β-tryptase levels must be investigated for an allergic cause. However, patients without increased mast cell tryptase levels should be investigated if the clinical picture suggests severe anaphylaxis. © 2004 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.