Abnormal mast cell morphology

What it means

Any structural anomaly of mast cells, which are found in almost all tissues and contain numerous basophilic granules and are capable of releasing large amounts of histamine and heparin upon activation.

Mast cells (or mastocytes) can be found in several types of tissues and contain many granules rich in histamine and heparin. Although best known for their role in allergy and anaphylaxis, mast cells play an important protective role as well, being intimately involved in wound healing and defense against pathogens. Mast cells possess a non-lobed nucleus and can work with basophils in the immune defense against worms. Their cell membrane is covered with Fc recepros that may be attached to class E antibodies.

Rare diseases that can present with this4

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category

Also called: Abnormality of mast cells · Abnormality of mastocytes