Current options in the treatment of mast cell mediator-related symptoms in mastocytosis

Inflamm Allergy Drug Targets. 2006 Jan;5(1):61-77. doi: 10.2174/187152806775269303.

Abstract

Patients with mastocytosis have symptoms related to the tissue response to the release of mediators from mast cells (MC), local mast cell burden or associated non-mast cell hematological disorders. MC contain an array of biologically active mediators in their granules, which are preformed and stored. MC are also able to produce newly generated membrane-derived lipid mediators and are a source of multifunctional cytokines. Mediator-related symptoms can include pruritus, flushing, syncope, gastric distress, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, bone pain and neuropsychiatric disturbances; these symptoms are variably controlled by adequate medications. Management of patients within all categories of mastocytosis includes: a) a careful counseling of patients (parents in pediatric cases) and care providers, b) avoidance of factors triggering acute mediator release, c) treatment of acute and chronic MC-mediator symptoms and, if indicated, d) an attempt for cytoreduction and treatment of organ infiltration by mast cells.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chymases
  • Histamine Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Inflammation Mediators / physiology
  • Mast Cells / pathology*
  • Mastocytosis / drug therapy
  • Mastocytosis / pathology*
  • Serine Endopeptidases / pharmacology
  • Tryptases

Substances

  • Histamine Antagonists
  • Inflammation Mediators
  • Serine Endopeptidases
  • Chymases
  • Tryptases