Mast cell activation in acquired chronic urticaria-angioedema

Mast cells play a central role in the pathogenesis of many allergic disorders. They can be activated in different ways. The present study was focused to evaluate the role of mast cells in acquired chronic urticaria-angioedema induced by gastroesophageal reflux. Tryptase, an important marker of mast cell activation, was detected with UniCapTM Tryptase Fluoroenzymeimmunoassay ŽPharmacia & Upjohn AB, Uppsala, Sweden.. Eight subjects were studied: four males and four females, aged between 29 and 71 years Žmean age: 45 yrs.., suffering from acquired chronic urticaria-angioedema. Results were compared with the results of seven healthy control subjects. Moreover, data were compared with those of 13 subjects Ž10 males and 3 females, mean age: 24.7 years. suffering from allergic rhinitis. In acquired chronic urticaria-angioedema, serum tryptase levels Žmean S.D.: 9.6 4.3 g l. were significantly higher ŽP 0.007. than those of the controls Žmean S.D.: 3.0 1.2 g l. and higher also than in allergic rhinitis Žmean S.D.: 6.1 2.4 g l, P 0.03.. The results underline the central role of mast cells in the inflammation of acquired chronic urticaria-angioedema.