Mast Cell Disorders
When your immune system's first responders become overactive, every system in your body can be affected. Get expert care from physicians who understand the complexity of MCAS, mastocytosis, and related conditions.
Understanding the Complexity
Mast cells are found throughout your body. When they malfunction, symptoms can appear anywhere.
Neurological
Brain fog, headaches, anxiety, memory issues
Cardiovascular
Palpitations, blood pressure swings, POTS
Respiratory
Wheezing, shortness of breath, throat tightness
Musculoskeletal
Joint pain, muscle aches, osteoporosis
Skin
Flushing, hives, itching, dermatographism
Gastrointestinal
Nausea, cramping, diarrhea, reflux
Common Triggers We Help You Identify
Everyone's triggers are different. We use systematic testing to find yours.
Temperature
Heat, cold, rapid changes
Stress
Physical & emotional
Foods
High-histamine items
Medications
NSAIDs, opioids, antibiotics
Scents
Perfumes, chemicals
Exercise
Overexertion
Insect Stings
Bees, wasps, ants
Sunlight
UV exposure
The Mast Cell Cascade
Understanding what happens when mast cells activate
Trigger Exposure
Contact with personal trigger
Mast Cell Activation
Cells degranulate rapidly
Mediator Release
Histamine, tryptase, prostaglandins
System-Wide Effects
Symptoms across multiple organs
Conditions We Diagnose & Treat
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)
Inappropriate mast cell activation without increased cell numbers. Often triggered by environmental factors.
- โ Multi-system symptoms
- โ Episodic flares
- โ Normal or slightly elevated tryptase
- โ Responds well to treatment
Systemic Mastocytosis
Abnormal accumulation of mast cells in organs. Requires specialized testing for diagnosis.
- โ Elevated tryptase (>20 ng/mL)
- โ KIT D816V mutation common
- โ Bone marrow involvement
- โ Various subtypes
Hereditary Alpha-Tryptasemia (HฮฑT)
Genetic condition with extra copies of the alpha-tryptase gene. Often runs in families.
- โ Baseline tryptase >8 ng/mL
- โ TPSAB1 gene duplication
- โ Family clustering
- โ Associated with MCAS
Idiopathic Anaphylaxis
Recurrent anaphylaxis without identifiable trigger. May be mast cell related.
- โ Unexplained reactions
- โ Normal allergy testing
- โ Requires epinephrine
- โ Preventable with treatment
Your Path to Diagnosis
A systematic approach to finding answers
Comprehensive Assessment
90-minute initial consultation reviewing all symptoms, triggers, and medical history across every body system.
Baseline Testing
Tryptase, complete blood count, metabolic panel, and inflammatory markers to establish your baseline.
Flare Documentation
24-hour urine collection and blood tests during symptomatic periods to catch elevated mediators.
Response to Treatment
Trial of H1/H2 blockers and mast cell stabilizers. Positive response supports diagnosis.
Advanced Testing
Genetic testing, bone marrow biopsy if indicated, and specialized immunology panels.
Comprehensive Testing Options
Complete Mast Cell Panel
Everything needed for accurate diagnosis and monitoring.
- โ Serum tryptase (baseline & peak)
- โ 24-hour urine N-methylhistamine
- โ 24-hour urine prostaglandin D2
- โ Plasma histamine
- โ Chromogranin A
- โ Heparin level
- โ Complete blood count with eosinophils
- โ Comprehensive metabolic panel
Genetic Testing
Identify hereditary causes and family risk.
- โ TPSAB1 gene (HฮฑT)
- โ KIT D816V mutation
- โ PLCG2 mutations
- โ Family variant testing
Flare Testing Kit
At-home collection during symptoms.
- โ Urine collection supplies
- โ Prepaid overnight shipping
- โ Instructions & symptom diary
- โ Results in 48-72 hours
Evidence-Based Treatment Protocols
First-Line Medications
Starting treatment for newly diagnosed patients
Antihistamines
Cetirizine, fexofenadine, or loratadine. Often at higher than typical doses.
Famotidine
Reduces stomach acid and blocks H2 histamine receptors throughout body.
Cromolyn Sodium
Prevents mast cell degranulation. Available oral and inhaled.
Montelukast
Blocks inflammatory mediators. Helpful for respiratory symptoms.
Advanced Therapies
For patients with severe or refractory symptoms
Omalizumab (Xolair)
Anti-IgE therapy for severe cases. Monthly or biweekly injections.
Imatinib
For KIT-negative systemic mastocytosis. Requires monitoring.
Low-Dose Naltrexone
Modulates immune response. Often helpful for neurological symptoms.
Lifestyle & Trigger Management
๐ฝ๏ธ Low-Histamine Diet
Personalized nutrition plan avoiding high-histamine foods and your specific triggers.
- Fresh, non-processed foods
- Avoid aged, fermented items
- DAO enzyme support
๐ง Stress Management
Stress is a major trigger. We provide tools and techniques for nervous system regulation.
- Vagus nerve exercises
- Mindfulness practices
- Pacing strategies
๐ Environmental Control
Creating a safe living space free from common triggers.
- Fragrance-free products
- HEPA air filtration
- Temperature regulation
Smart Tracking Tools
Monitor symptoms and identify patterns with our digital tools
Symptom Tracker App
Log symptoms, triggers, and medications daily
Flare Analytics
AI-powered pattern recognition
Trigger Alerts
Weather and pollen notifications
Progress Reports
Track improvement over time
Your Mast Cell Care Team
Specialists who understand the complexity of mast cell disorders
Allergist/Immunologist
Leads your care team with expertise in mast cell disorders and immune dysfunction.
Gastroenterologist
Manages GI symptoms and performs necessary biopsies when indicated.
Dermatologist
Addresses skin manifestations and performs skin biopsies if needed.
Care Coordinator
Your single point of contact for appointments, testing, and questions.
Patient Success Stories
After 10 years of being told it was 'all in my head,' Above Health finally gave me answers. My MCAS diagnosis changed everything. I'm now stable on treatment and living my life again.
The genetic testing revealed HฮฑT in our entire family. Three generations are now properly treated. My daughter no longer misses school, and I'm back to work full-time.
From constant ER visits to zero in the past year. The comprehensive approach - medications, diet, and trigger management - gave me my life back. I even traveled internationally!
Resources & Support
Common Questions
Is MCAS a real diagnosis?
Yes. MCAS is recognized by major medical organizations including the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. It has specific diagnostic criteria and evidence-based treatments.
Why did my previous doctors miss this?
Mast cell disorders are complex and relatively newly understood. Many physicians aren't familiar with the diagnostic criteria or the wide range of symptoms. Specialists trained in these conditions are essential.
Can children have mast cell disorders?
Yes. We treat pediatric patients and often identify hereditary forms that affect multiple family members. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent years of suffering.
Will I need treatment forever?
Most patients require long-term management, but many achieve excellent symptom control and can reduce medications over time. Some patients experience periods of remission.
How quickly will I see improvement?
Many patients notice improvement within 2-4 weeks of starting treatment. Finding the optimal medication combination may take 2-3 months. We adjust protocols based on your response.
Is this covered by insurance?
Most testing and treatments are covered by insurance. We work with your plan to maximize coverage and provide documentation for prior authorizations when needed.
Stop Living in Uncertainty
You deserve answers. Our mast cell experts are ready to help you understand your symptoms and find effective treatment.
Most patients see improvement within 4 weeks โข Insurance accepted