Autoimmunity & Mast Cell Activation in Dysautonomia

Dr. Brent Goodman discusses the potential autoimmune origin of POTS and its association with mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), during a presentation at the Dysautonomia International's 2017 Conference. He highlights the complex interplay between genetic, hereditary, and environmental factors that may contribute to the development of POTS, including infections and surgeries. Dr. Goodman notes that Sjogren's syndrome may be a prevalent secondary cause of POTS and emphasizes the difficulty in diagnosing MCAS due to inconsistent lab results. Despite these challenges, he advocates for treating suspected MCAS to stabilize the immune and autonomic systems. His approach emphasizes a combination of lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and pharmacotherapy, while also considering immune therapies in persistent cases.