Mast Cell Tryptase, IHC without Interpretation [40017X]

Test Code

40017

CPT Codes
88342-TC

Preferred Specimen

Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, tissue block

Minimum Volume

1 block • 3 slides

Other Acceptable Specimens

3 unstained, positively (+) charged slides

Transport Container

IHC Specimen Transport Kit

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: Indefinitely
Refrigerated: Indefinitely
Frozen: Unacceptable

Methodology
Immunohistochemistry

Setup Schedule

Set up: Mon-Fri; Report available: 1-4 days

Clinical Significance

Mast cells contain a number of preformed chemical mediators, such as histamine, chymase, carboxypeptidase, and proteclytic tryptase. A substantial quantity of tryptase is reported to be found in mast cells of skin and lung and suggests this enzyme plays a major role in mast cell mediated events; in vitro studies indicate tryptase can cleave C3 to form C3a anaphylatoxin, inactivate fibrinogen as a coaguable substrate for thrombin, and activate latent collaegnase. Models of allergenic disease in the skin, nose, and lung have indicated elevated tryptase levels. Human mast cell tryptase has been reported to be implicated as a mediator of inflammation. Mast cell degranulation in the gut causes mucus secretion, mucosal edema, increased gut permeability, and may be responsible for some of the symptoms and signs of inflammatory bowel disease.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.