Systemic mastocytosis

Overview

Systemic mastocytosis (mas-to-sy-TOE-sis) is a disorder caused by a genetic mutation that results in an excessive number of mast cells in your body. Mast cells normally help protect you from disease and aid in wound healing by releasing substances such as histamine and leukotrienes. But if you have systemic mastocytosis, excess mast cells can build up in your skin, around blood vessels, in your respiratory, gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, or in reproductive organs. When triggered, these mast cells release substances that can overwhelm your body and result in symptoms such as facial flushing, itching, a rapid heartbeat, abdominal cramps, lightheadedness or even loss of consciousness. Common triggers include alcohol, temperature changes, spicy foods and certain medications.

Several types of systemic mastocytosis exist. The most common form — indolent systemic mastocytosis — progresses slowly. The second most common form is systemic mastocytosis associated with a second blood disorder. Another type, aggressive systemic mastocytosis, develops rapidly and is often associated with organ damage. Mast cell leukemia and mast cell sarcoma are extremely rare forms of systemic mastocytosis.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for systemic mastocytosis

• Expertise and teamwork. Mayo Clinic doctors from several medical specialties work together to provide you with the best care possible. Your team may include specialists in allergic diseases, dermatology, gastroenterology, pediatrics, neurology, endocrinology, hematology and pathology.
• Personalized care. At Mayo Clinic, doctors manage systemic mastocytosis by regularly monitoring your condition, then tailoring a treatment plan to help you manage your specific symptoms.
• Latest diagnostic and treatment options. Mayo Clinic is one of the only treatment centers with the ability to collect samples from you at the time you're experiencing symptoms of systemic mastocytosis. This is the optimal time to gather valuable information about your condition.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

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