Mastocytosis: when should it be considered?
Comte-Perret, S.; Bart, P.-A.; Spertini, F.ço.; Leimgruber, A.
Revue Medicale Suisse 5(199): 837-842
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 1660-9379 PMID: 19441750 Document Number: 13484
Mast cell disorders are defined by the accumulation of mast cells in one or more organ systems. Cutaneous forms are mainly observed in children whereas systemic forms are predominant in adults. Mast cells cause symptoms by the release of proinflammatory mediators or by infiltration of various organs. The measurement of serum tryptase has opened the possibility of screening for mastocytosis, which must be taken into consideration in case of severe anaphylactic reactions. Definite diagnosis is established based on a biopsy of skin or bone marrow. An activating mutation of stem cell factor receptor c-kit is often found. Treatment is based on control of the symptoms triggered by mast cell degranulation. Moreover, novel treatment options targeting mast cell proliferation become available for clinical use.
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