Diseases and Conditions
Systemic mastocytosis
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Complications
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Coping and support
Preparing for an appointment
Causes
Most cases of systemic mastocytosis are caused by a random change (mutation) in the KIT gene. Typically this flaw in the KIT gene is not inherited. Too many mast cells are produced and build up in tissues and body organs, releasing substances such as histamine, leukotrienes and cytokines that cause inflammation and symptoms.