INDOLENT SYSTEMIC MASTOCYTOSIS

Indolent systemic mastocytosis is an uncommon disease in which your body accumulates excess mast cells. A mast cell is a white blood cell of the immune system. It may be located in your body’s connective tissues. Moreover, mast cells also aid in the correct functioning of the immune system and, in most cases, assist in safeguarding you from illness.

Too many mast cells grow up in the skin, digestive tract, bone marrow, and other bodily organs when you suffer from indolent systemic mastocytosis. Furthermore, when these mast cells are activated, they generate chemicals that induce symptoms comparable to an allergic response, as well as extreme inflammation that can lead to organ impairment. Alcohol, spicy meals, insect bites, and some medicines are all common causes.

SYMPTOMS

Indolent systemic mastocytosis has various symptoms, depending on which region of the body is impacted by many mast cells. Mast cells may accumulate in the skin, spleen, liver, bone marrow, and intestines if there are too many of them. On the other hand, other organs, including the heart, brain, or lungs, are less frequently impacted.

The following are some of the symptoms:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Itching, flushing, or hives
  • Mood changes
  • Muscle and bone pain
  • Bleeding problems
  • Anemia 
  • Abdominal pain
  • Enlarge spleen, liver, and lymph nodes
  • Diarrhea 

DIAGNOSIS

Your doctor will most likely begin by examining your symptoms and reviewing your medical history, such as any medicines you’ve used, to diagnose indolent systemic mastocytosis. Then, he or she may have tests done to see whether there are any elevated amounts of mast cells or the chemicals they produce. An examination of the organs afflicted by the disease is also possible. The following tests may be performed:

  • Skin biopsy
  • Urine or blood tests
  • Genetic testing
  • Imaging exams such as CT Scan, X-ray, bone scan, and ultrasound
  • Bone marrow biopsy

TREATMENT

The treatment for indolent systemic mastocytosis differs, depending on the organs that are afflicted. Managing symptoms, treating the illness, and frequent monitoring are all common treatments.

Moreover, other treatments include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Stem cell transplant
  • Medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids

Consult your doctor about the best therapy for your condition.

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