What it means
Mast cells sit in the skin, airways and gut lining. When an allergen links to antibodies on their surface, they release histamine, which causes itching, hives, swelling, runny nose and tight airways. A large release throughout the body causes anaphylaxisan-uh-fuh-LAK-sisA sudden, severe allergic reaction that affects the whole body.ana- away, against-phylaxis protectionFull entry . Antihistamines block histamine; mast cell stabilizers such as cromolyn keep it from being released.
At a glance
| Spanish | mastocito |
|---|---|
| Also written | mast cells |
Related terms
allergy
A reaction of the immune system to a substance that is harmless to most people.
anaphylaxis
A sudden, severe allergic reaction that affects the whole body.
hypersensitivity
An overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless.
wheal
A raised, red or pale, itchy bump on the skin that comes and goes; a single hive.