Mast cell
A granulocyte found in connective tissue whose normal function is unknown but that is frequently injured during allergic reactions. When a mast cell is injured, it releases strong chemicals, including histamine, into the tissues and blood. These chemicals are very irritating and cause itching, swelling, and fluid leaking from cells. They can also cause muscle spasm, leading to lung and throat tightening (as is found in asthma) and loss of voice.
Read Also:
- Mast syndrome
An autosomal recessive form of hereditary spastic paraplegia with dementia first described in the Old Order Amish. The disease usually surfaces in early adulthood and is slowly progressive. The Mast syndrome gene is in chromosome 15q22.31 Its protein product is called maspardin.
- Mastalgia
Pain in the breast or mammary gland, whether serious or not. Mastalgia has many causes including injury, infection, and plugged milk ducts.
- Mastectomy
A general term for removal of the breast, usually to remove cancerous tissue. The operation can be done in a hospital or in an outpatient clinic, depending on how extensive it needs to be. After a mastectomy, reconstructive surgery may be performed to restore a more normal appearance. In cases of nonmetastatic breast cancer, a […]
- Mastectomy, modified radical
Removal of the breast tissue and the axillary lymph nodes, which are under the arms.
- Mastectomy, preventative
Removal of one or both breasts without the current presence of cancer. This surgery is sometimes chosen as a preventative measure by women who have a strong history of familial breast cancer. Also known as a prophylactic mastectomy.