Paediatric Cutaneous Mastocytosis – A Case Series from India

Abstract

Mastocytosis is a rare condition characterised by abnormal mast cell accumulation in the skin and other tissues. Cutaneous mastocytosis (CM) represents the most frequent presentation of mastocytosis in paediatric patients. This case series highlights the importance of histopathology in diagnosing CM. A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary centre from January 2020 to December 2024, involving six paediatric patients (aged 2–6 years) presenting with skin complaints. Clinical, dermoscopic and histopathological evaluations were done. All patients exhibited clinical features of CM and positive Darier’s sign. Histopathology revealed dermal mast cell infiltration. Immunohistochemistry confirmed mast cell identity. The case series included maculopapular CM, solitary mastocytoma and telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans. All patients were treated symptomatically and followed up. No systemic involvement was observed. Histopathology is crucial for the accurate diagnosis and subclassification of paediatric CM. Dermatologists play a key role in early recognition and management to ensure timely intervention and appropriate follow-up.