Mastocytosis. Perioperative considerations

Mastocytosis, an uncommon clinical disorder, can present a variety of clinical manifestations ranging from an asymptomatic state to one characterized by recurrent episodes of severe vasodilatation. Even the patient whose disease appears to be well controlled and is asymptomatic preoperatively can develop serious intraoperative problems. Knowledge of the pathogenesis and treatment, avoidance of known provoking factors, and adherence to established precautionary measures, in particular the constant availability of IV epinephrine infusion throughout the perioperative period, enables members of the surgical team to safely support the patient throughout the operative experience.