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Mastocytosis is a disease, which occurs when the number of mast cells in a person's body increases. Mast cells are a type of blood cells that are present in the skin, the sides of stomach and the intestinal walls, and the tissues which joint various body parts like cartilages or tendons in fingers. Mastocytosis occurs rarely. It is often termed as ‘orphan disease’ because of its rare occurrence.
A human body cannot do without the mast cells. They are necessary for our survival. They protect the skin, stomach, and the intestines from disease and injury. When a person is injured, mast cells help in healing the wound. The problem arises only when the mast cells out number their required quantity. They also play an important part in the growth of the blood vessels. Mastocytosis can happen to anybody irrespective of their age or sex. However, it gets more serious when it occurs in adults. In children, Mastocytosis is mild in nature and they generally get cured on its own.
Kinds of Mastocytosis -
Mastocytosis are of two types - Cutaneous Mastocytosis and Systemic Mastocytosis. Cutaneous and systemic forms again have sub groups. Urticaria pigmentosa is the most commonly found Cutaneous Mastocytosis. When the mast cells enter into the skin, it results in Urticaria pigmentosa. When the mast cells gather in the tissues, it is called Systemic Mastocytosis. It affects the internal organs of the body like liver, spleen, bone marrow, and small intestine.
Mast cells are cells that protect us from getting infections. Mast cell generates chemical called histamine and acids of the stomach. When our body reacts to something, Histamine leads to swelling, itching, and redness of the skin. Mast cells are present in the skin, the lungs and the intestines in larger number as compared to other parts of our body.
Causes of Mastocytosis –
The researchers are yet to find the exact causes of Mastocytosis.
Symptoms of Mastocytosis
The symptoms of Mastocytosis vary from person to person. The symptoms mainly depend upon the location of the extra mast cells in the body. If it is Mastocytosis of skin, then, the symptoms would be rashes, which cause itching and are red in color, hives, freckles, or lumps on the skin. If it is Mastocytosis of the stomach and intestine, the patient will suffer from diarrhea and acute stomach pain. The patient may also get cramps in the stomach, joint pain, and uneasiness in the stomach, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, scars on the skin. It may also lead to low blood pressure and fainting in the patient.
Diagnosis of Mastocytosis -
The doctors diagnose Mastocytosis with the help of a skin biopsy, a bone marrow biopsy, a blood test or a urine test.
Treatment for Mastocytosis –
Doctor may advise medications that gives relief to the symptoms. If it is Mastocytosis of skin, it may be cured on its own. However, Mastocytosis that affects other parts of the body is still incurable. The doctors may prescribe antihistamine s. These help to relieve the itching and also improves digestive system of the body.
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