Mastocytosis: Latest Research

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 06/2017

ON THIS PAGE: You will read about the scientific research being done now to learn more about mastocytosis and how to treat it. Use the menu to see other pages.

Doctors are working to learn more about mastocytosis, how to best treat it, and how to provide the best care to people diagnosed with this disease. The following areas of research may include new options for patients through clinical trials. Always talk with your health care team about the best diagnostic and treatment options for you.

  • Targeted therapy. As explained in the Treatment Options section, some mast cells have a mutation of the c-kit tyrosine kinase receptor, which causes them to grow. Early results from clinical trials show that the drug dasatinib and, less commonly other tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as imatinib and nilotinib, may help treat mastocytosis. In addition, a new drug called masitinib, a second generation inhibitor of the c-kit receptor, is also being studied for mastocytosis.

  • Palliative care. Clinical trials are underway to find better ways of reducing symptoms and side effects of current treatments for mastocytosis to improve patients’ comfort and quality of life.

Looking for More About the Latest Research?

If you would like additional information about the latest areas of research regarding mastocytosis, explore these related items that take you outside of this guide:

The next section in this guide is Coping with Treatment. It offers some guidance in how to cope with the physical, emotional, and social changes that mastocytosis and its treatment can bring. You may use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.