Systemic heparin‐like activity in mastocytosis

Systemic Mastocytosis and Other Mast Cell Neoplasms

“…Patients often have symptoms related to the release of mast cell mediators such as histamine and prostaglandins; symptoms include flushing, alcohol intolerance, pruritis, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, bronchospasm, heat or cold intolerance and headache (Webb et al , 1982; Brunning et al , 1983; Travis et al , 1988a; Topar et al , 1998; Roberts et al , 1989). Some patients have a coagulation defect as a consequence of release of heparin (Fanning et al , 1992). Symptomatic release of mast cell granules may be precipitated by exposure to heat, exertion, emotional disturbance and exposure to alcohol, aspirin, opiates, anticholinergics, non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and contrast media.…”