Urticaria
Reference work entry
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-29662-X_2687
Synonyms
Hives.
Definition
A superficial, pruritic skin lesion that has a central raised wheal surrounded by an erythematous halo; results from activation of cutaneous mast cells.
Differential Diagnosis
The lifetime risk of urticaria is 20%. Causes of an episode of urticaria usually are never identified. However, known causes include atopic sensitization, drugs, foods, connective tissue diseases, malignancy, thyroid disorders, infection and physical stimuli (cold, heat, vibration).
References
- Kaplan AP (2001) Urticaria and angioedema: pathogenesis, assessment, and treatment. In: Austen KF, Frank MM, Atkinson JP, Cantor H (eds) Samter's Immunologic Diseases. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, pp 865–77Google Scholar
Copyright information
© Springer-Verlag 2004