Mast Cell: A Mysterious Character in Skin Cancer

Cutaneous malignancies represent a real concern and burden for the healthcare system, not only due to their increased frequency, but also due to the significant number of deaths attributed to these types of cancer. The genesis of tumors, their progression and metastasis are highly complex and researched subjects; apparently, mast cells (MCs) constitute an important piece in the complicated jigsaw puzzle of cancer. This article reviews the current knowledge of the roles MCs might play in the development of cutaneous malignancies. Besides their well-known and studied role in allergic reactions, MCs are linked to multiple and various disorders, including cancer. MCs exhibit incredible heterogeneity, being able to secrete numerous mediators that influence the tumor microenvironment and tumor cells. They are involved in many physiological and pathological processes, such as inflammation and angiogenesis. In this context, it is paramount to explore the advancements made so far in elucidating the roles that MCs have in skin cancer because they might provide valuable therapeutic targets in the future. Controversial and conflicting results were obtained across the studies examined.