Mast Cells and Respiratory Q&A with Dr. Anne Maitland and Dr. Rebecca Bascom | English (EN)

During the Q&A session, Dr. Anne Maitland and Dr. Rebecca Bascom addressed various inquiries related to mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and its interplay with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), sleep apnea, and respiratory issues. Discussions included the potential dual causality between MCAS and EDS, testing approaches for MCAS, and the complex relationship between sleep apnea and EDS. Dr. Maitland emphasized on tissue biopsy as a key diagnostic tool for MCAS and highlighted the significance of observing therapeutic responses even in the absence of clear lab markers. She also discussed potential protective effects of medications used for MCAS against COVID-19. Dr. Bascom discussed respiratory complications in EDS, including sleep apnea and potential diaphragmatic impacts, and touched on the possibility of pneumothorax in EDS patients. The session advocated for personalized diagnostic and management strategies tailored to individual patient presentations and responses.