Anaphylactic histamine release from human gastric and duodenal mast cells.

Mast cells from human gastric and duodenal walls were isolated using a collagenase dispersion technique. The reactivity of both mast cell populations with anti-human IgE antibodies and specific antigens was tested in an in vitro model of anaphylactic reaction. Mast cell populations were sensitive to the action of anti-IgE, and histamine release was 17.4-27.4% (duodenal) and 19.3-29.3% (gastric mast cells). No significant differences between both mast cell populations of the same individuals were observed. Gastric and duodenal mast cells obtained from patients with peptic ulcer and positive intradermal test with allergens (grass pollen, tomato, cocoa) released histamine after challenge with adequate antigens. The reaction was dose-dependent. Gastric mast cells were more reactive than duodenal cells to challenge with antigen.