The measurement of histamine in stool is a diagnostic test used primarily to detect and evaluate allergic reactions and inflammatory conditions in the gastrointestinal tract. Histamine, a biogenic amine, is released by immune cells in response to allergens and plays a key role in inflammatory processes. High levels of histamine in the stool can indicate gastrointestinal disorders such as food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and mast cell activation syndromes. This test helps in identifying the presence of excessive immune response and aids in the diagnosis and management of conditions related to increased histamine activity....
Individuals experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal distress that may be related to allergic reactions or inflammatory conditions—such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and bloating—should consider this test. It is particularly useful for those suspected of having food allergies, IBD, or mast cell activation syndrome.
Symptoms suggesting the need for testing histamine levels in stool include chronic diarrhea, unexplained abdominal pain, flushing, headaches, and symptoms consistent with allergic reactions that are confined to the gastrointestinal tract.
The test involves collecting a stool sample from the patient, which is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure the levels of histamine. This measurement indicates the degree of inflammatory or allergic activity in the gastrointestinal tract.
Elevated histamine levels in stool can result from allergic reactions to certain foods, presence of excessive mast cells in the gastrointestinal tract (as seen in mast cell activation syndrome), or chronic inflammatory conditions such as IBD.