Identifying Systemic Mastocytosis: Insights from Hussein Abbas, MD

Clinicians have the power to transform lives through early diagnosis of systemic mastocytosis, a rare but significant disease that often first presents with skin rashes. This topic was highlighted during a recent session at the 2025 Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) Fall Conference, titled “When a Rash Is More than Skin Deep: Systemic Mastocytosis Essentials.” Dr. Hussein Abbas, an assistant professor at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, led a discussion focused on the critical need for awareness and understanding of this condition.

In an interview with HCPLive, Dr. Abbas explained the challenges both physicians and patients encounter when facing a rare disease. “Systemic mastocytosis is a very rare disease, but it’s also a significant disease because it can really create a lot of symptom burden to patients,” he noted. “In some cases, it can impact longevity and the quality of life.”

Through his presentation, Dr. Abbas aimed to illuminate the diagnostic pathways, critical clinical clues, and strategies for working collaboratively with hematology and oncology specialists. “One of the main takeaways is that systemic mastocytosis is under-recognized,” he stated. “The first individuals who see the disease are often dermatologists or allergists because patients commonly present with skin rashes or allergic reactions.”

Understanding the symptoms is essential for proper diagnosis. Dr. Abbas emphasized the need for a thorough workup that includes blood tests for enzymes such as tryptase. He further explained that most patients with cutaneous mastocytosis also have systemic disease.

Recognizing Cutaneous Mastocytosis

Dr. Abbas categorized the cutaneous manifestations of mastocytosis into three main groups, highlighting maculopapular cutaneous mastocytosis (MPCM) as a notable type. “This is when you have brown, reddish lesions,” he described. “They could appear uniformly across the skin. In adults, these lesions are typically recognizable by their brownish color. When stimulated, they can elicit a reaction on the skin.”

Dr. Abbas’s insights underscore the importance of early recognition and diagnosis, which can significantly influence patient outcomes. For more detailed tips on identifying systemic mastocytosis, interested individuals can view the full session video available online.

In conclusion, the findings presented by Dr. Abbas at the SDPA conference highlight the necessity for heightened awareness and collaboration among healthcare providers. Awareness of systemic mastocytosis can lead to improved patient care and potentially better quality of life for those affected.