MCAS
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a chronic condition in which mast cells, a type of immune cell, release excessive chemicals that trigger allergic-like reactions throughout the body. Symptoms vary widely and can include skin rashes, digestive issues, breathing difficulties, and severe allergic responses. MCAS is often complex to diagnose and requires a combination of symptom tracking and specialized tests. Treatment typically focuses on identifying triggers, stabilizing mast cells, and managing symptoms with medications and lifestyle adjustments.
Maine Resources
Allergy and Asthma Associates of Maine (AAAM) - Specializes in diagnosing and treating allergic and immunologic conditions, including Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). Their team provides comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing care to help patients manage symptoms and improve quality of life. They offer convenient online scheduling for appointments at multiple locations.
Regional Resources
Brigham & Women's Hospital - Mastocytosis Center - Specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mast cell disorders, including Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and mastocytosis. Brigham & Women’s team provides comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing research to improve care for those affected by these conditions.
National Resources
Allergy & Asthma Network - Mast Cell Disease Toolkit - Designed to help patients and healthcare providers better understand and manage mast cell disorders, the Mast Cell Disease Toolkit includes information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and emergency preparedness. It also provides practical guidance on managing triggers and improving daily life with mast cell disease.
Allergy & Asthma Network - MCAS Overview - This resource provides an overview of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), detailing its symptoms, triggers, and diagnostic challenges. The Allergy & Asthma Network emphasizes the importance of identifying and managing triggers through lifestyle adjustments, medication, and medical guidance. They also advocate for increased awareness and research to improve diagnosis and treatment options.
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) - Provides public tools such as symptom checklists, patient resources, and physician locators to help individuals understand and manage Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). Their website offers an overview of MCAS, including its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment approaches. AAAAI emphasizes the importance of working with specialists for proper care and supports ongoing research to improve patient outcomes.
Super T’s Mast Cell Foundation - Dedicated to supporting individuals with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and related mast cell diseases by providing financial assistance, advocacy, and educational resources. The foundation helps patients access treatments, promotes awareness, and funds research to improve care for those affected.
The Dysautonomia Project - Mast Cell Activation Simplified - Provides a simplified explanation of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), breaking down its causes, symptoms, and impact on the body. The resource emphasizes how MCAS can contribute to dysautonomia and other chronic conditions, offering a patient-friendly overview of diagnosis and management strategies.
The Ehlers-Danlos Society - Explores the connection between Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), highlighting how individuals with EDS may be more prone to mast cell disorders. The resource explains the symptoms of MCAS, including allergic-like reactions, flushing, and gastrointestinal issues, and discusses how it can overlap with other conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). It emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis and individualized treatment strategies.
The Institute for Functional Medicine - MCAS - Designed for healthcare practitioners, this resource is still accessible for patients and can be shared with doctors to improve understanding and care. The article highlights the role of mast cells in immune response, the challenges of identifying MCAS, and emerging treatment approaches. It’s a short 4 minute read, and can be found by clicking the link above.
The Mast Cell Disease Society (TMS) - Provides a comprehensive overview of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), a condition where mast cells release excessive chemicals, leading to allergic-like symptoms throughout the body. TMS highlights the challenges of diagnosis, the importance of identifying triggers, and treatment options such as mast cell stabilizers and antihistamines. Their mission is to support patients, advance research, and raise awareness about mast cell disorders. Additional information can be found on The Mast Cell Disease Society’s website.
The Mast Cell Disease Society (TMS) - Support Groups - A space for patients and caregivers to connect, share experiences, and access reliable information. These groups help foster a sense of community while offering education and emotional support. The MCAS support group meets once a month on Zoom. Click the link to find more information and to sign up for a group.
Mast Cell Action - Provides comprehensive resources aimed at various aspects of living with MCAS. Their materials include guides for primary care providers, educational resources for schools, workplace adjustment templates, and tools for self-advocacy. These resources are designed to support individuals with MCAS in managing their condition across different environments, from healthcare settings to educational institutions and workplaces .