A new ASCIA Position Paper on the diagnosis and investigation of mast cell activation disorders and syndrome has been developed for health professionals.

Mast cell activation syndrome is a group of disorders with episodic symptoms due to mast cell mediator release. They involve multiple systems and can cause flushing, pruritus, wheeze and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Diagnosis is based on clinical and laboratory assessments, including testing for tryptase. Other laboratory tests are generally not used or available, due to their lack of sensitivity and specificity.

ASCIA Mastocytosis and other Mast Cell Disorders FAQ for patients and carers is also available.

This news item was issued on 26 April 2024 by Jill Smith, CEO of ASCIA, the peak professional body for clinical immunology and allergy in Australia and New Zealand.