Histamine intolerance DAO measurement
Histamine intolerance is a combination of symptoms after consuming foods high in histamine.
Histamine is partly produced by our body and partly contained in our food. An enzyme called DAO (diamino oxidase) is responsible for breaking down histamine. In the absence or reduced function of the enzyme, its breakdown slows down significantly and histamine builds up in the body, producing allergy-like symptoms after consuming a food rich in histamine.
Clinical symptoms are caused by persistently high histamine concentrations.
Consumption of foods and medications that inhibit histamine breakdown or cause histamine release, as well as non-fresh foods, can also cause complaints.
Most common symptoms
Skin symptoms
itchy skin, rash, reddening of the skin, flushing
Respiratory symptoms
runny nose, sneezing, cough, shortness of breath
Digestive problems
diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn, nausea, nausea
Circulatory system symptoms
palpitation, fluctuating blood pressure, headache, migraine, dizziness
Vegetative symptoms
heatwaves, sweating is seizures
menstrual disorders
oedema formation (typically eyelid oedema)
Foods causing histamine intolerance:
chocolate, cocoa
beer
champagne
red wine (the more mature the wine, the higher the histamine content)
preserved vegetables
sour cabbage
tomatoes, ketchup (pizza can be a problem too!)
vinegar and foods containing vinegar (e.g. mustard)
fish products, in particular canned fish, crab, snails, scallop, octopus
offal, smoked meat, sausages, ham
long-ripening „hard” cheeses (the longer the ripening time, the higher the histamine content)
Foods and drugs that inhibit histamine breakdown or cause histamine release
pineapple
papaya
avocado
walnut
drugs: diclofenac, aspirin
iodinated contrast agent
Not fresh foods in which histamine-producing bacteria have multiplied.
Laboratory method
During the assay, the concentration of DAO enzyme is measured by an ELISA-based test.
Interpretation of the results
Decreased DAO levels make histamine intolerance likely. Measured results should always be evaluated with clinical symptoms.
Preanalytical information
Native serum is required for testing. The test is not affected by taking antihistamines.
The test is influenced by various drugs, muscle relaxants, narcotics, painkillers, antihypertensive drugs, antiarrhythmics, certain antibiotics, mucolytics, bronchodilators, H2-receptor antagonists, cytostatics, antidepressants. These types of medicines should only be discontinued or replaced after consultation with your doctor.
How do I prepare for the test?
Having an empty stomach is not required for the histamine intolerance test.
When is the result expected?
On the 17th working day following the test.
