Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Investigating Mast Cell Secretory Granules; from Biosynthesis to Exocytosis
Published on: January 26, 2015
The mast cell and mast cell disease
1Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, New Haven, CT 06520-8059.
Mast cell disease, or mastocytosis, involves abnormal mast cell growth, primarily in the skin but potentially affecting multiple organ systems. Effective management requires understanding mast cell mediator effects and release triggers.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Mast cell disease, also known as mastocytosis, is a group of disorders.
- It is characterized by the abnormal proliferation and accumulation of mast cells.
- These cells can infiltrate various tissues, most commonly the skin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of mast cell disease (mastocytosis).
- To highlight the diverse clinical manifestations based on mast cell localization.
- To emphasize the importance of understanding mast cell mediators for effective management.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on mastocytosis.
- Analysis of clinical presentations and pathological findings.
- Synthesis of information on mast cell mediator effects and management strategies.
Main Results:
- Mastocytosis presents heterogeneously, with skin being the most frequent site of involvement.
- Symptoms vary widely depending on the affected organs (skin, skeletal, hematopoietic, gastrointestinal, cardiopulmonary, CNS).
- Mediators released by mast cells cause local and systemic effects.
Conclusions:
- Clinical management of mastocytosis hinges on understanding mast cell mediator actions.
- Knowledge of stimuli triggering mast cell degranulation is crucial.
- Awareness of therapeutic strategies to block mediator effects is essential for patient care.
Related Concept Videos
Inflammation
Differentiation of Common Myeloid Progenitor Cells
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Asthma I: Introduction

