Indolent systemic mastocytosis (ISM) is a rare form of systemic mastocytosis (SM) caused by an abnormal buildup of mast cells throughout the body. What causes ISM, and how is it diagnosed? In this episode, we speak with Aaron Gerds, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine in Hematology and Medical Oncology at the Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute, about the signs and symptoms of ISM, the diagnostic process, and how ISM differs from other forms of systemic mastocytosis. We also hear from Candice Pauley, an ISM patient and co-host of the Mast Cast Pod, who shares her journey to diagnosis, her experience living with the disease, and the challenges of navigating a rare condition.

Credits 
Host: Neha Pathak, MD, FACP, DipABLM
Producer/Editor: Matt Stillo
Show Notes: Lauren Summers
Guests: Aaron Gerds, MD; Candice Pauley

<p>Indolent systemic mastocytosis (ISM) is a rare form of <a href="https://www.webmd.com/allergies/systemic-mastocytosis">systemic mastocytosis (SM)</a> caused by an abnormal buildup of mast cells throughout the body. What causes ISM, and how is it diagnosed? In this episode, we speak with <a href="https://providers.clevelandclinic.org/provider/aaron-gerds/4269596">Aaron Gerds, MD</a>, Associate Professor of Medicine in Hematology and Medical Oncology at the Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute, about the signs and symptoms of ISM, the diagnostic process, and how ISM differs from other forms of systemic mastocytosis. We also hear from Candice Pauley, an ISM patient and co-host of the<a href="https://www.instagram.com/mastcastpod"> Mast Cast Pod</a>, who shares her journey to diagnosis, her experience living with the disease, and the challenges of navigating a rare condition.</p>
<p>Credits&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Host: Neha Pathak, MD, FACP, DipABLM</li>
<li aria-level="1">Producer/Editor: Matt Stillo</li>
<li aria-level="1">Show Notes: Lauren Summers</li>
<li aria-level="1">Guests: Aaron Gerds, MD; Candice Pauley</li>
</ul>

WebMD Chief Physician Editor Neha Pathak, MD, and Chief Medical Officer, John Whyte, MD, MPH, explore fascinating stories to find the unexpected things that help us understand our health.