Mastocytosis Manifested by Hepatosplenomegaly

Abstract

CURRENT interest in the function and pathophysiology of the mast cell has been exemplified by a recent symposium on the subject.¹ However, arguments over the derivation of the mast cell and its function and role in diseases remain unresolved.Pathologic states involving the mast cell can take several forms, which have been arbitrarily divided into benign and malignant varieties. Mastocytosis is a condition caused by systemic hyperplasia of mast cells, the skin being one of the organs primarily involved in the majority of cases. The cutaneous lesions may be of several types, and a definite diagnosis can only be made . . .