Mastocytosis is a rare disease characterized by the increase and accumulation of mast cells on the skin and other body tissues, resulting in reddish brown spots and spots on the skin that sting a lot, especially when there are temperature changes and when the skin comes into contact with clothing, for example.
Mast cells are cells produced in the bone marrow, found in various tissues of the body and that can also be linked to immune response, especially in the allergic response. However, unlike allergies, the signs and symptoms of mastocytosis are chronic and not related to triggers.
- It is important that mastocytosis is identified and treated according to your doctor’s instructions.
- As in some cases it may also be related to other serious blood disorders.
- Such as acute leukemia.
- Lymphoma.
- Chronic neutropenia.
- And changes in myelophoco.
Mastocytosis occurs when mast cells proliferate and accumulate in the body and, depending on where these cells accumulate, mastocytosis can be classified into:
As soon as there are more mast cells at the site, signs and symptoms indicative of a disease appear, so it is important to consult your doctor so that tests can be done to complete the diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment.
Signs and symptoms of mastocytosis may vary by type and are related to circulating histamine concentration. This is because mast cells are made up of granules that release histamine. Therefore, the higher the concentration of mast cells, the higher the concentration of histamine, resulting in the signs and symptoms of mastocytosis, the main of which are:
In some cases, symptoms of mastocytosis may worsen when there are temperature changes, after eating very hot or spicy foods or drinks, after exercise, after contact with clothing, or after use of certain medications.
The diagnosis of mastocytosis is made by blood tests that aim to identify the levels of histamine and prostaglandin D2 in the blood, which should be taken immediately after the seizure, or in 24-hour urine.
In addition, in case of skin mastocytosis, a histological examination may also be performed, in which a small sample of the lesion is taken and sent to the laboratory for analysis and to check for an increase in the number of mast cells in the tissue.
Treatment of mastocytosis should be guided by an immunoraniser or family doctor based on a person’s medical history, and signs and symptoms.
In most cases, your doctor may recommend using medications to relieve symptoms, especially antihistamines and corticosteroid creams and ointments. However, when symptoms are more severe, especially systemic mastocytosis, treatment may be more complicated and, in some cases, surgery may be necessary.