Brit J Hosp Med
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Mast cells are innate immune cells found in connective tissues throughout the body, most prevalent at tissue-environment interfaces. They possess multiple cell-surface receptors which react to various stimuli and, after activation, release many mediators including histamine, heparin, cytokines, prostaglandins, leukotrienes and proteases. In mast cell activation syndrome, excessive amounts of inflammatory mediators are released in response to triggers such as foods, fragrances, stress, exercise, medications or temperature changes. ⋯ It is theorised that COVID-19 infection could lead to exaggeration of existing undiagnosed mast cell activation syndrome, or could activate normal mast cells owing to the persistence of viral particles. Other similarities include the relapse-remission cycle and improvements with similar treatments. Importantly, however, aside from mast cell disorders, long COVID could potentially be attributed to several other conditions.
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One in two people that smoke tobacco will die prematurely and for every person that dies, thirty more will suffer from the serious diseases it causes. Treating this deadly disease lies on the shoulders of every healthcare professional, all of whom have a responsibility to provide highly effective and evidence-based interventions. Failure to treat tobacco dependency falls far below the required standard of care and could be considered negligent.