
Overview
Mast cells release histamine when an allergen is encountered. The histamine response can produce sneezing, itching, hives and watery eyes.
Review Date 5/20/2024
Updated by: Jacob Berman, MD, MPH, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.