[Cutaneous mastocytosis in twins]

The case of a pair of fraternal twins of seven months of age with cutaneous Mastocyte disease is presented. A brief historical survey of this condition is made. The histological picture is described with special emphasis on the mastocyte and its physiopathology. A description of the clinical aspect of the Pigmentous Urticaria in children and a brief reference to the other clinical forms of Mastocyte disease in its localized and systemic manifestations are presented. The different etio-pathogenic genetic theories related to this disease are considered, on account of the occurrence of this condition in members of a same family and in identical and fraternal twins. A revision of cases available up to date is made. The conclusion is that the etio-pathogenic problem is not solved yet, although the Mastocyte disease is considered as depending on a hereditary factor, not clearly defined yet, predisposing to this condition.