What is mastocytosis?
"Masto-" refers to mast cells. Mast cells are a part of your immune system involved in allergic reactions.
Mastocytosis is a buildup of mast cells in your skin and sometimes other parts of your body.
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Mastocytosis is rare
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Symptoms include itchy spots and bumps, flushing, an upset stomach, and sometimes bone pain
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Mastocytosis can affect just your skin or other parts of your body, such as your lungs and lining of your intestines
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Mastocytosis of the skin alone isn't life-threatening and sometimes goes away without treatment
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Mastocytosis that affects other parts of your body is more serious and can even be life-threatening—you should carry a dose of epinephrine for emergency treatment
What causes mastocytosis?
Mastocytosis develops when your body makes too many mast cells. The mast cells can collect in your skin, bones, or other organs.
Mast cells produce a chemical called histamine. Too much histamine can cause:
Doctors don’t always know why your body makes too many mast cells, but some people have a genetic mutation that causes mastocytosis.
