mast cell
Meaning of mast cell: Mast cells are immune cells stationed throughout skin and mucosal tissue that release histamine and drive allergic and inflammatory reactions.
Definition of mast cell
A mast cell is a type of immune cell that develops from the same bone marrow derived stem cells as other blood cells but matures and takes up permanent residence within tissue, including the skin and the lining of the respiratory and digestive tracts, rather than circulating freely in the blood the way many white blood cells do.
Mast cells contain granules filled with histamine and other chemical mediators, which are released when the cell is activated, often by an allergen binding to antibodies on the cell's surface. This release produces the redness, swelling, itching, and, in severe reactions, the widespread symptoms associated with anaphylaxis.
Mast cells also play a role in defending against certain parasites and in wound healing, and because they are positioned at surfaces exposed to the outside environment, they serve as an early responder in the body's broader immune and allergic response.
Also known as
Used in a sentence
Mast cell activation was suspected as the cause of the patient's widespread hives and itching.
Good to know
Mast cells reside permanently in tissue rather than circulating in the blood, distinguishing them from basophils, a related white blood cell type that shares similar granules and functions but does circulate in the bloodstream.
Word origin
Where “mast cell” comes from
Formed from German Mast, meaning animal feed or fattening, a name given because the numerous granules filling the cell made it appear well fed under early microscopic examination.