New Biomarkers in Human Anaphylaxis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The use of novel biomarkers for anaphylaxis in clinical diagnosis
IRAS ID
241496
Contact name
M Thirumala Krishna
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The condition usually develops suddenly and gets worse very quickly. Symptoms include feeling very unwell, breathing difficulty, feeling faint, an itchy rash, swelling and feeling sick. Anaphylaxis is a result of the immune system (the body’s natural defence system) overreacting to a trigger, such as certain food, insect stings, general anaesthetic or medicines.
The diagnosis of anaphylaxis is based on clinical history, signs and symptoms of the reaction. A number of conditions may mimic anaphylaxis (e.g. asthma or food poisoning) and therefore a delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis can occur. This can have serious implications to patients’ health, to their family, their quality of life and there can be a significant impact on the health service.
The current laboratory blood test to aid in the diagnosis of anaphylaxis is the measurement of tryptase – a chemical released by a type of white blood cell involved in the allergic reaction. However, tryptase is not always abnormal in anaphylaxis and normal levels cannot rule out the condition. Hence, a new chemical ('biomarker') for anaphylaxis that could be measured in the laboratory would be invaluable for use in the allergy clinic.
In this study, we propose to explore and evaluate new laboratory tests for novel ‘biomarkers’ in anaphylaxis and compare their performance with tryptase.
REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
18/WA/0229
Date of REC Opinion
10 Jul 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion