Analysis index

1 ml serum

> 10 U/ml

Histamine intolerance caused by a deficiency of the histamine-degrading enzyme DAO, hereditary or acquired.

Histamine is absorbed with food and develops in the intestines at the process of bacterial transformation from histidine. This histamine is degraded via the diamine oxidase (DAO) for the protection of the intestinal mucosa. When the individual degradation capacity and histamine resorption are exceeded, it leads to histaminergic symptoms (skin rash, headaches, tachycardia, arrhythmia, hypotension, rhinitis, stomach- and bowel problems, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, swelling of the eyelids etc.). Alcohol consumption and medication (such as acetyl cysteine, ambroxol, aminophylline, amitriptyline, chloroquine, clavulanic acid, isoniazid, metamizole, metoclopramide, propafenone, verapamil) have an inhibiting effect on DAO and may lead to symptoms of histamine intolerance. Chronic bowel diseases and/or vitamin B6-deficiency may lead to decreased DAO-activity. Histamine-rich foods: Seafood, ripe cheeses, some red wines, citrus fruits, strawberries, raspberries, kiwis, chocolate. Confirmation of a DAO-deficiency is also important to avoid complications when administering contrast media. Decreased DAO-activity and histamine intolerance is also associated with some types of migraines as well as miscarriages and premature births.