Involvement of the jaw bones in systemic mastocytosis

Systemic mastocytosis is characterised by proliferation of mast cells and infiltration of organs. Severe bony pain may result from release of chemical mediators from mast cells and affected patients are at an increased risk of anaphylaxis. Traditional analgesics such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents and opioids are contraindicated. Diagnosis is based on presentation, biopsy of bone marrow, and magnetic resonance imaging of the affected area. In the head and neck, the disease may present as facial pain, localised ostcomyelitis, oral sinus formation, and oral ulceration. Treatment is with histamine antagonists and bisphosphonates to control symptoms. An adrenaline pen is provided for use in case of anaphylaxis. (c) 2005 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.