Mast Cell Disorders
This page covers mastocytosis and mast cell activation syndrome — Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. evaluates and treats both adults and children across our New Jersey offices.
What Mast Cell Disorders Are
Mast cells are immune cells that release histamine and other chemicals. In mast cell disorders, they release too much of these chemicals, too often.
The main types are mastocytosis, where there are too many mast cells, either in the skin or elsewhere in the body, and mast cell activation syndrome, where normal numbers of mast cells release their chemicals too easily.
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. evaluates and treats mast cell disorders in adults and children across our New Jersey offices.
Common Symptoms
These are common signs of a mast cell disorder. If you notice any of these, it's worth having them evaluated.
Flushing
Itching
Hives
Abdominal cramping, nausea or diarrhea
Lightheadedness or low blood pressure
In some people, episodes of anaphylaxis
Common Triggers
Many people with a mast cell disorder notice a pattern with one or more of these common triggers:
Heat
Hot weather, hot showers, or overheating can bring on symptoms in people with a mast cell disorder.
Exercise
Physical exertion can trigger flushing, itching, or other symptoms in some people.
Stress
Emotional or physical stress is a common trigger for mast cell symptoms.
Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages can set off flushing and other reactions in sensitive individuals.
Insect Stings
Stings from bees, wasps, and other insects can trigger significant reactions.
Some Medications
Certain medications can trigger mast cell symptoms and should be reviewed with your doctor.
How We Evaluate It
Evaluating a mast cell disorder starts with understanding you as an individual. We use these methods:
A Detailed History
We start by talking with you in detail about your episodes, when they happen, and what may bring them on.
A Physical Examination
A hands-on exam helps us understand your symptoms and rule out other causes.
Blood Tests, Including Serum Tryptase
We may order blood tests including serum tryptase, ideally measured both at a normal time and soon after an episode.
Referral for Further Testing
Some patients are referred for further specialist testing to confirm a diagnosis.
How It's Treated
Our approach to treating mast cell disorders includes:
Avoiding Known Triggers
We work with you to identify the trigger or triggers involved and how to avoid them.
H1 and H2 Antihistamines
Antihistamines that block H1 and H2 receptors are often used to help control symptoms.
Mast Cell Stabilizers
Mast cell stabilizers such as cromolyn can help reduce the release of chemicals from mast cells.
Leukotriene Blockers
Leukotriene blockers may be added to help manage symptoms.
Epinephrine Auto-Injector
Anyone at risk of anaphylaxis is prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector to carry at all times.
Biologic Medications, Where Appropriate
Some patients benefit from biologic medications as part of their treatment plan.
When to Call Us
Consider scheduling an evaluation if any of the following apply to you:
Repeated, Unexplained Symptoms
If you have repeated flushing, hives, or stomach symptoms without a clear cause, it is time to have them evaluated.
Fainting or Anaphylaxis
Any episode of fainting or anaphylaxis is a reason to seek evaluation right away.