Food, Fear, and Physiology: Untangling MCAS and Eating Disorders

This presentation explores the complex intersection of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and eating disorders (EDs), particularly restrictive types such as ARFID and anorexia nervosa, highlighting the diagnostic, medical, and psychological challenges that arise when symptoms overlap. The presentation underscores the importance of diagnostic rigor and emphasizes treatment success relies on the principle of prioritized nutrition restoration with multidisciplinary collaboration among physicians, dietitians, and therapists to ensure safety and avoid unnecessary restriction.

Educational Objectives

• Define validated MCAS diagnostic criteria and distinguish them from non-consensus frameworks.
• Identify overlapping gastrointestinal and anxiety symptoms during eating disorder refeeding that can mimic MCAS.
• Apply evidence-based nutritional and pharmacologic management for patients labeled with MCAS during ED treatment.

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