Mast Cell Matters: Deep dives on MCAS with Tania Dempsey, MD - Presented by The POTScast Dr. Alexis Cutchins on venous compressions, POTS, MCAS, MALS and more
Jun 10, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Alexis Cutchins, an assistant professor at Emory specializing in cardiovascular disease in women, dives into the intricate connections between MCAS, POTS, and venous compression. She shares insights on how these conditions impact patients, highlighting the importance of pelvic venous health. The conversation also covers the significance of ongoing medical education and the evolving dynamics between patients and doctors in addressing these complex disorders.
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Discovering MCAS via Patient Story
- Dr. Alexis Cutchins discovered MCAS through a patient who improved dramatically after MCAS treatment.
- This sparked her interest, especially as she saw many long COVID patients with overlapping MCAS symptoms.
MCAS Linked to POTS Symptoms
- Mild mast cell activation can trigger autonomic responses like POTS symptoms such as high heart rate and fluctuating blood pressure.
- Treating MCAS often helps reduce symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, and hyperadrenergic states.
Grandmother's MCAS Misdiagnosis
- Dr. Tania Dempsey recalled her grandmother's misdiagnosed chest pain that was likely due to MCAS and vasospasm.
- She regrets not treating it with antihistamines, showing how MCAS can be overlooked in heart-related symptoms.