9th July 2023

Systemic Mastocytosis

Clonal neoplastic mast cells proliferate and accumulate in bodily tissues such as the skin, bone marrow, lymph nodes and other organs. Mast cell activation releases histamine and triggers an inflammatory response. Cutaneous involvement can present with itch, swelling and erythema. Systemic involvement can present in various ways, such as hypotension, flushing and abdominal pain. Serum tryptase levels may be raised and a tissue biopsy confirms the diagnosis.