Cluster-Analytic Identification of Clinically Meaningful Subtypes in MCAS: The Relevance of Heat and Cold.

This study sought to improve diagnostic and treatment approaches for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) by identifying clinically meaningful subtypes within the patient population. Researchers analyzed data from 250 MCAS patients using cluster analysis based on symptoms and triggers, identifying three distinct clusters of patients according to their responsiveness to thermal triggers such as heat and cold. The clusters were categorized as high responders, who reacted to both heat and cold, intermediate responders, who reacted mostly to heat, and low responders, who did not react to thermal triggers. The analysis also highlighted symptoms associated with various triggers: histamine intake often resulted in abdominal discomfort, exercise-induced dermatological issues, and stress from exertion or fasting related to neurological symptoms. These findings suggest that a trigger-related classification system could enhance personalized diagnosis and treatment of MCAS. Further longitudinal studies are recommended to explore the long-term relationships between triggers and symptoms.