Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Dysautonomia Dr Lawrence Afrin

In this presentation, Dr. Lawrence Afrin, an expert on mast cell diseases, discusses Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and its overlap with dysautonomia, specifically POTS. He explains the historical development of understanding mast cell diseases, differentiating between mastocytosis and MCAS. MCAS is characterized by inappropriate activation of mast cells without proliferation and is prevalent, contributing to a range of symptoms across various systems, including allergy-like symptoms. Dr. Afrin highlights challenges in diagnosing MCAS due to its heterogeneity and the absence of standard diagnostic criteria, along with its potential link to chronic inflammatory conditions and POTS. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing MCAS through a comprehensive assessment due to its complex presentation across different cases. The management involves identifying triggers and methodically trialing available treatments, as there is currently no predictive model for which treatments may be effective for specific patients. Dr. Afrin urges a cautious approach with medications beyond basic antihistamines to avoid unnecessary exposure to potentially ineffective treatments.