Research
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) scientists have studied and treated patients with mastocytosis for more than two decades at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center.
Some of the most important research advances for this rare disorder include improved diagnosis
of mast cell disease, identification of growth factors that are responsible for increased mast cell production, and improved treatment. For example, researchers have developed drugs that help
block the action of chemicals released from mast cells. Researchers are evaluating other drugs that slow down production of mast cells.
Scientists are also focusing on identifying gene mutations associated with the disease. Several such mutations have been identified at NIH in a cell receptor for a mast cell growth factor. Understanding such mutations helps researchers understand the causes of mastocytosis, improve diagnosis, and develop better treatment methods.