1
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Butterfield JH, Taylor A. Acute/baseline ratios of all 3 MC mediator metabolites can enhance diagnosis and management of mast cell activation syndrome. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. GLOBAL 2025; 4:100399. [PMID: 39906893 PMCID: PMC11791225 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacig.2024.100399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 10/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2025]
Abstract
Background Mast cell (MC) activation syndrome (MCAS) can be a challenge to diagnose and treat despite the near continuous appearance of publications outlining specific criteria. Follow-up of the clinical responses to treatment is often lacking, and confirmation that leukotriene C4 (LTC4) is an active participant in MCAS has been overlooked. Objective Three patients with MCAS characterized by anaphylaxis are presented to illustrate (1) the value of contemporaneous urinary mediator sampling during MCAS in addition to serum tryptase measurements and (2) substantiation of the fact that not only can LTC4 (measured metabolite LTE4) be the highest metabolite measured, but (3) blockade of the LTE4 receptor can contribute to symptom prevention. Method The study methods comprised clinical review and quantitation of acute and baseline levels of tryptase and urinary MC mediators. Results The cases of 3 patients with MCAS are reviewed. In the first case, vespid sting-induced anaphylaxis was associated with a marked increase in the LTE4 excretion. The addition of montelukast was instituted, and subsequent stings did not evoke symptoms. In the second case, acute measurements showed substantial increased levels of (2,3-dinor)-11β-prostaglandin F2α, and LTE4. The addition of aspirin plus montelukast prevented subsequent attacks. The third case documents a perioperative anaphylactic event with an acute/baseline LTE4 ratio far higher than those of tryptase or other metabolites. Conclusions The value of measuring all 3 MC mediator metabolites during MCAS should not be overlooked. These measurements can facilitate the successful prevention of attacks. Furthermore, results from these tests show that histamine is often a minor player, whereas acute/baseline levels of the metabolites of LTC4 and prostaglandin D2 are frequently much higher, warranting nonantihistamine treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adela Taylor
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Eau Claire, Wis
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2
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Lyons JJ. Appraisal of the evidence linking hereditary α-tryptasemia with mast cell disorders, hypermobility and dysautonomia. Allergy Asthma Proc 2025; 46:4-10. [PMID: 39741374 PMCID: PMC11809510 DOI: 10.2500/aap.2025.46.240088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2025]
Abstract
Since its first description more than a decade ago, our understanding of the clinical impact of hereditary alpha-tryptasemia has continued to evolve. First considered to be a genetic disorder with a subset of patients having a syndromic presentation composed of connective tissue abnormalities, symptoms of autonomic dysfunction, and findings of mast cell activation, we now know that hereditary alpha-tryptasemia is a common genetic trait and modifier of mast cell-mediated reactions. More recent studies have shown some previously held associations with congenital hypermobility and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) to be lacking, and illuminated previously unappreciated associations with clonal and nonclonal mast cell disorders. With the discovery of heterotetrameric tryptases and demonstration of their unique functional activities, the importance of tryptase gene composition in general has begun to take focus. Hereditary alpha-tryptasemia exists at the end of a spectrum of alpha-tryptase expression and as a natural overexpression model of this protein, brought to the fore the potential of tryptase genotyping as a genetic biomarker for anaphylaxis severity. These data and future studies hold the promise of enhancing our understanding of the role that tryptases play in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan J. Lyons
- From the Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California and
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, California
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3
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Giannetti MP, Godwin G, Middlesworth J, Espeland A, Nicoloro-SantaBarbara J, Castells M. Mast cell activation identified through urine mediators. Allergy 2024; 79:2531-2533. [PMID: 38532556 DOI: 10.1111/all.16109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P Giannetti
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Grace Godwin
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julia Middlesworth
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew Espeland
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer Nicoloro-SantaBarbara
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mariana Castells
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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4
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Akin C, Siebenhaar F, Wechsler JB, Youngblood BA, Maurer M. Detecting Changes in Mast Cell Numbers Versus Activation in Human Disease: A Roadblock for Current Biomarkers? THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:1727-1737. [PMID: 38467332 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of mast cell (MC)-driven disorders is diverse, ranging from localized reactions to systemic disorders caused by abnormal accumulation and activation in multiorgan systems. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is critically important, both for informing treatment and objective assessment of treatment outcomes. As new therapeutics are being developed to deplete MCs or silence them (eg, by engaging inhibitory receptors that block activation), new biomarkers are needed that can distinguish between MC activation versus burden. Serum tryptase is the gold standard for assessing both MC burden and activation; however, commercial tryptase assays have limitations related to timing of release, lack of discernment between inactive (α) and active (β) forms of tryptase, and interpatient variability of baseline levels. Alternative approaches to measuring MC activation include urinary MC mediators, flow cytometry-based assays or gene expression profiling. Additional markers of MC activation are needed for use in clinical diagnostics, to help selection of treatment of MC diseases, and for assessing outcomes of therapy. We review the spectrum of disorders with known or suspected MC contribution, describe the utility and limitations of current MC markers and assays, and discuss the need for new markers that can differentiate between MC activation and burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cem Akin
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich
| | - Frank Siebenhaar
- Institute of Allergology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Immunology and Allergology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joshua B Wechsler
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Ill
| | | | - Marcus Maurer
- Institute of Allergology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Immunology and Allergology, Berlin, Germany.
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5
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Gonzalez-Estrada A, Carrillo-Martin I, Morgenstern-Kaplan D, Rukasin CRF, Rank MA, Park MA, Yee CI, Volcheck GW. A US-Based Multicenter Retrospective Report of Perioperative Anaphylaxis, 2010-2021. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:1594-1602.e9. [PMID: 38580206 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND US-based perioperative anaphylaxis (POA) studies are limited to single-center experiences. A recent report found that a serum acute tryptase (sAT) >9.8 ng/mL or mast cell activation (MCA) can predict POA causal agent identification. Urinary mast cell mediator metabolites (uMC) have not been studied in POA. OBJECTIVE To analyze the epidemiologic data of POA, to determine if sAT or MCA can predict suspected causal agent identification, and to evaluate uMC utility in POA. METHODS This study is a retrospective multicenter review of POA cases that were subcategorized by suspected causal agent identification status. sAT, MCA (defined as sAT >2 + 1.2 × serum baseline tryptase), and uMC (N-methylhistamine [N-MH], 11β-prostaglandin-F2α [11β-PGF2α], leukotriene E4 [LTE4]) were recorded. RESULTS Of 100 patients (mean age 52 [standard deviation 17] years, 94% adult, 50% female, 90% White, and 2% Hispanic) with POA, 73% had an sAT available, 41% had MCA, 16% had uMC available, and 50% had an identifiable suspected cause. POA cases with an identifiable suspected cause had a positive MCA status (100% vs 78%; P = .01) compared with POA with an unidentifiable cause. An elevated median sAT did not predict causal agent identification. Positive uMC were not associated with suspected causal agent identification during POA. Patients with positive uMC had a higher median sAT (30 vs 6.45 ng/mL; P = .001) and MCA status (96% vs 12%; P = .001) compared with negative uMC patients. Patients with POA had an elevated acute/baseline uMC ratios: 11β-PGF2α ratio > 1.6, N-MH ratio >1.7, and LTE4 ratio >1.8. CONCLUSIONS The presence of MCA in POA is associated with suspected causal agent identification. Positive uMC possibly correlate with a higher sAT level and MCA status but require further study. The authors suggest applying an acute/baseline uMC ratio (11β-PGF2α ratio >1.6, N-MH ratio >1.7, and LTE4 ratio >1.87) in patients with POA for MCA when a tryptase level is inconclusive during POA evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Gonzalez-Estrada
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Fla.
| | - Ismael Carrillo-Martin
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Fla
| | - Dan Morgenstern-Kaplan
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Fla
| | - Christine R F Rukasin
- Division of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Ariz; Division of Pulmonary, Section of Allergy/Immunology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, Ariz
| | - Matthew A Rank
- Division of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Ariz; Division of Pulmonary, Section of Allergy/Immunology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, Ariz
| | - Miguel A Park
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
| | - Claire I Yee
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Ariz
| | - Gerald W Volcheck
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
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6
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Khoury P, Wechsler JB. Role of Mast Cells in Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2024; 44:311-327. [PMID: 38575226 PMCID: PMC11220468 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Mast cells play a central role in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs), including eosinophilic esophagitis. Their interactions with immune and structural cells, involvement in tissue remodeling, and contribution to symptoms make them attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. More is being discovered regarding the intricate interplay of mast cells and eosinophils. Recent studies demonstrating that depletion of eosinophils is insufficient to improve symptoms of EGIDs have raised the question of whether other cells may play a role in symptomatology and pathogenesis of EGIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paneez Khoury
- Human Eosinophil Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 10, Room 12C103, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Joshua B Wechsler
- Simpson-Querrey 10-518, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, 225 E. Chicago Avenue, Box 65, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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Hamilton MJ. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Gut Dysfunction: Diagnosis and Management. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 2024; 26:107-114. [PMID: 38353900 DOI: 10.1007/s11894-024-00924-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is a clinical disorder that may explain irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) type symptoms as well as other allergic symptoms experienced by an individual. The diagnosis and treatment of MCAS with specific focus on gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations is reviewed. RECENT FINDINGS Although biomarkers for MCAS remain elusive, testing for baseline serum tryptase will distinguish the type of mast cell disorder and urine tests for mast cell mediator metabolites may support the diagnosis. Endoscopy and Colonoscopy with biopsies is not used to diagnose MCAS but is important to rule out other conditions that may cause symptoms. There is increased awareness of the association between MCAS and autonomic dysfunction, small fiber neuropathy, and connective tissue disorders which all impact GI symptoms. MCAS is a disorder often of unknown etiology (idiopathic) and characterized by intermittent allergy type symptoms that affect multiple organ systems after exposure to a trigger. GI symptoms including abdominal cramping and loose stool are prominent and mimic those of IBS. Diagnostic testing is performed to assess for elevations in mast cell mediators during symptoms and to rule out other conditions. A comprehensive treatment plan includes medications that target mast cells, treatments for associated conditions including autonomic dysfunction, and management of comorbid psychiatric illness and nutritional deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Hamilton
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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8
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Akin C. Dilemma of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: Overdiagnosed or Underdiagnosed? THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:762-763. [PMID: 38458701 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Cem Akin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich.
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9
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Valent P, Akin C, Arock M. Reversible Elevation of Tryptase Over the Individual's Baseline: Why is It the Best Biomarker for Severe Systemic Mast Cell Activation and MCAS? Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2024; 24:133-141. [PMID: 38308674 PMCID: PMC10960756 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-024-01124-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mast cell (MC) activation syndromes (MCAS) are conditions defined by recurrent episodes of severe systemic anaphylaxis or similar systemic events triggered by MC-derived mediators that can be measured in biological fluids. Since some symptoms of MC activation may occur due to other, non-MC etiologies and lead to confusion over diagnosis, it is of crucial importance to document the involvement of MC and their products in the patients´ symptomatology. RECENT FINDINGS The most specific and generally accepted marker of severe systemic MC activation is an event-related, transient increase in the serum tryptase level over the individual baseline of the affected individual. However, baseline concentrations of serum tryptase vary among donors, depending on the genetic background, age, kidney function, and underlying disease. As a result, it is of critical importance to provide a flexible equation that defines the diagnostic increase in tryptase qualifying as MCAS criterion in all patients, all situations, and all ranges of baseline serum tryptase. In 2012, the consensus group proposed the 120% + 2 ng/ml formula, which covers the great majority of groups, including cases with low, normal, or elevated basal serum tryptase level. This formula has been validated in subsequent studies and has proven to be a robust and consistent diagnostic criterion of MCAS. The present article is discussing the impact of this formula and possible limitations as well as alternative markers and mediators that may be indicative of MCAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Valent
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Hematology and Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Cem Akin
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Michel Arock
- Platform of Molecular Analysis for Mastocytosis and MCAD (CEREMAST), Department of Biological Hematology, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, AP-HP, Paris Sorbonne University, Paris, France
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10
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Zaghmout T, Maclachlan L, Bedi N, Gülen T. Low Prevalence of Idiopathic Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Among 703 Patients With Suspected Mast Cell Disorders. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:753-761. [PMID: 38056692 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.11.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic mast cell activation syndrome (iMCAS) is characterized by severe, episodic systemic mast cell (MC) activation and mediator-related symptoms, an event-related increase in serum tryptase levels, and response to MC-targeted therapies in the absence of underlying IgE-mediated allergy or clonal MC disorder. Studies indicating its prevalence using evidence-based diagnostic criteria are lacking. OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence and clinical and laboratory features of patients with iMCAS. METHODS We conducted a retrospective evaluation of data from 703 consecutive patients (aged ≥18 years) referred to our center based on suspicion of having MC disorders. Patients underwent a thorough clinical workup including patient history, allergy tests, KIT D816V mutation analysis, and/or bone marrow investigation. Disease activity was prospectively assessed during follow-up visits. RESULTS We identified 31 patients with confirmed iMCAS. Furthermore, hereditary α-tryptasemia was detected in three patients with baseline tryptase levels greater than 8 ng/mL. The most common clinical presentation during MCAS episodes was mucocutaneous symptoms in patients with iMCAS, especially urticaria or angioedema. However, these symptoms were less prevalent in patients with clonal MCAS (P = .015). The duration of diagnostic delay was significantly longer in patients with iMCAS compared to those with clonal MCAS (P = .02). CONCLUSIONS The overall prevalence of iMCAS was 4.4% in the entire cohort, which indicates that iMCAS is an uncommon condition. To accurately diagnose iMCAS, it is crucial to evaluate suspected patients using the three diagnostic MCAS criteria. This involves performing a comprehensive allergy work-up including laboratory tests and ultrasensitive mutation analysis of KIT D816V. Subsequently, recommended diagnostic algorithms should be applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taleb Zaghmout
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laura Maclachlan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nawfal Bedi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Theo Gülen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Mastocytosis Center Karolinska, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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11
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Sabato V, Beyens M, Toscano A, Van Gasse A, Ebo DG. Mast Cell-Targeting Therapies in Mast Cell Activation Syndromes. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2024; 24:63-71. [PMID: 38217824 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-023-01123-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Provide an overview of the expanding landscape of mast cell (MC)-targeting treatments in mast cell activation syndromes (MCAS). RECENT FINDINGS Tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting wild-type and mutated KIT can efficiently induce MC depletion. Avapritinib and midostaurin can also temper IgE-mediated degranulation. Avapritinib has been recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of indolent systemic mastocytosis (ISM). Targeting activation pathways and inhibitory receptors is a promising therapeutic frontier. Recently, the anti Siglec-8 antibody lirentelimab showed promising results in ISM. MCAS is a heterogeneous disorder demanding a personalized therapeutic approach and, especially when presenting as anaphylaxis, has not been formally captured as outcome in prospective clinical trials with TKI. Long-term safety of TKI needs to be addressed. New drugs under investigation in diseases in which non-neoplastic MCs play a pivotal role can provide important inputs to identify new efficient and safe treatments for MCAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Sabato
- Department of Immunology, Allergology, Rheumatology, The Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken T5.9582 Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Michiel Beyens
- Department of Immunology, Allergology, Rheumatology, The Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken T5.9582 Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Alessandro Toscano
- Department of Immunology, Allergology, Rheumatology, The Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken T5.9582 Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Athina Van Gasse
- Department of Paediatrics, The Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Didier G Ebo
- Department of Immunology, Allergology, Rheumatology, The Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken T5.9582 Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium.
- Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.
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12
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Gulen T. Using the Right Criteria for MCAS. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2024; 24:39-51. [PMID: 38243020 PMCID: PMC10866766 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-024-01126-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The current article aims to provide a comprehensive update on diagnostic criteria for mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), addressing challenges in diagnosing and classifying MCAS and its variants. RECENT FINDINGS In recent years, there has been a significant increase in our knowledge regarding the underlying mechanisms responsible for the activation of mast cells (MCs) in various pathological conditions. Furthermore, a set of criteria and a classification for MCASs have been established. MCAS is characterized by the presence of typical clinical symptoms, a substantial elevation in serum tryptase levels during an attack compared to the patient's baseline tryptase levels, and a response to MC mediator-targeting therapy. In this report, a thorough examination was conducted on the contemporary literature relating to MCAS, with a focus on comparing the specificity, sensitivity, and robustness of MCAS-related parameters within proposals for diagnosing and classifying MCAS and its variants. Moreover, the significance of employing specific consensus criteria in the assessment and categorization of MCAS in individual patients was underscored, due to the escalating occurrence of patients receiving a misdiagnosis of MCAS based on nonspecific criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theo Gulen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, K85, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, SE-14186, Sweden.
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Clinical Lung and Allergy Research Unit, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Mastocytosis Centre Karolinska, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
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13
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Voelker D, Pongdee T. Urine Mast Cell Mediators in the Evaluation and Diagnosis of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2024; 24:33-38. [PMID: 38236528 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-024-01128-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mast cell activation syndrome is defined by severe, episodic, and recurrent symptoms induced by mast cell mediators with objective measurement of increase in biomarkers of mast cell activation and treatment response with mast cell therapies. Increase in serum tryptase from baseline during a mast cell activation episode is currently the most accepted biomarker measurement of mast cell release. However, during symptomatic episodes, serum tryptase can be difficult to obtain as it is a venipuncture procedure. Other objective measures of mast cell activation are needed to complement serum tryptase. RECENT FINDINGS Urine mast cell mediators can be collected at home and are non-invasive tests. There is emerging evidence for the utility of urine mast cell mediators including histamine, cysteinyl leukotrienes, and prostaglandins in the diagnosis of mast cell activation syndrome. In this review, clinically available urine mast cell mediators will be discussed including N-methylhistamine, leukotriene E4, and 2,3-dinor-11beta-prostaglandin F2 alpha. We discuss the rationale for the use of these urine mast cell mediators and examine the studies analyzing their performance for identifying mast cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayne Voelker
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Thanai Pongdee
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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14
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Giannetti MP, Nicoloro-SantaBarbara J, Godwin G, Middlesworth J, Espeland A, Douvas JL, Castells MC. Challenges in Drug and Hymenoptera Venom Hypersensitivity Diagnosis and Management in Mastocytosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:123. [PMID: 38247999 PMCID: PMC10814166 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14020123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Mastocytosis is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by abnormal proliferation and activation of clonal mast cells typically bearing the KITD816V mutation. Symptoms manifest due to the release of bioactive mediators and the tissue infiltration by neoplastic mast cells. Mast cell activation symptoms include flushing, pruritus, urticaria, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, wheezing, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and anaphylaxis. Up to 50% of patients with mastocytosis report a history of provoked and unprovoked anaphylaxis, with Hymenoptera venom and drugs the most common culprits. NSAIDs, antibiotics, vaccines, perioperative medications, and radiocontrast media are often empirically avoided without evidence of reactions, depriving patients of needed medications and placing them at risk for unfavorable outcomes. The purpose of this review is to highlight the most common agents responsible for adverse drug reactions in patients with mastocytosis, with a review of current epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of drug hypersensitivity and Hymenoptera venom allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P. Giannetti
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jennifer Nicoloro-SantaBarbara
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Grace Godwin
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Julia Middlesworth
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Andrew Espeland
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Julia L. Douvas
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mariana C. Castells
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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15
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Beyens M, Toscano A, Ebo D, Gülen T, Sabato V. Diagnostic Significance of Tryptase for Suspected Mast Cell Disorders. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3662. [PMID: 38132246 PMCID: PMC10742504 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13243662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Tryptase has proven to be a very useful and specific marker to demonstrate mast cell activation and degranulation when an acute (i.e., within 4 h after the event) and baseline value (i.e., at least 24 h after the event) are compared and meet the consensus formula (i.e., an increase of 20% + 2). The upper limit of normal determined by the manufacturer is 11.4 ng/mL; however, this boundary has been the subject of debate. According to ECNM and AIM experts, the normal range of baseline tryptase should be 1 to 15 ng/mL. A genetic trait, hereditary alpha tryptasemia, characterized by an increased alpha coding TPSAB1 copy number is associated with a baseline value above 8 ng/mL. Elevated tryptase can also be found in chronic kidney disease, obesity, and hematological neoplasms. A tryptase > 20 ng/mL serves as a minor criterion to diagnose systemic mastocytosis and an increase in tryptase > 20% + 2 during an acute event is a required criterion in the diagnosis of mast cell activation syndrome. The goal of this review is to demonstrate the (in)significance of tryptase using some clinical vignettes and to provide a practical guide on how to manage and interpret an elevated tryptase level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel Beyens
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium (A.T.); (V.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Alessandro Toscano
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium (A.T.); (V.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Didier Ebo
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium (A.T.); (V.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Immunology and Allergology, AZ Jan Palfijn Gent, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Theo Gülen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, K85, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-14186 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Immunology and Allergy, Karolinska Institutet, SE-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vito Sabato
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium (A.T.); (V.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Allergology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
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16
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Gülen T. A Puzzling Mast Cell Trilogy: Anaphylaxis, MCAS, and Mastocytosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3307. [PMID: 37958203 PMCID: PMC10647312 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13213307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Our knowledge of biology and mast cell (MC) function, as well as disorders associated with the pathologic activation of MCs, has evolved over the last few decades. Anaphylaxis, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and mastocytosis are interrelated yet distinct conditions within the spectrum of mast cell activation disorders. Nevertheless, all three conditions can co-exist in one and the same patient, as pathologic MC activation is the key finding in all three. When mediator release is excessive and involves multiple systems, anaphylaxis and MCAS may occur. Furthermore, mastocytosis is a clonal disorder of MCs and often presents with anaphylaxis and MCAS. Nevertheless, in some cases, even the proliferative and accumulative features of MCs in mastocytosis can account for symptoms and disease progression. In each case, diagnosis can be only made when the diagnostic consensus criteria are fulfilled. The current article aims to provide a concise clinical update and pinpoint the main difficulties in diagnosing these puzzling disorders of MCs in medical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theo Gülen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Immunology and Allergy, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 141 52 Stockholm, Sweden
- Mastocytosis Centre Karolinska, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
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Kerber AA, Coon EA, Reichard KK, Chen D, Pongdee T, Chiarella SE. Systemic mastocytosis presenting with episodic rigors. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2023; 11:2955-2956. [PMID: 37315688 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dong Chen
- Division of Hematopathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
| | - Thanai Pongdee
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
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