Mastocytosis and the mast cell.

Mastocytosis is a disease in which the mast cell population is increased in various tissues. Although the mechanism for the increased density of mast cells is not understood, recent research into mast cell structure and function has improved our understanding of the symptomatology and prompted newer and better approaches to treatment. To be discussed, and of particular interest to the dermatologist, is the management of, and evaluation for, systemic disease in a patient presenting with cutaneous findings.