Dr. K Yogiraj discusses about urticaria with regards to its classification, diagnosis, causes and treatment protocols required to be followed for the management of urticaria
What is Urticaria? Urticaria, commonly known as welts or hives, refers to raised, erythematous wheals caused by the release of histamine and other vasoactive substances from mast cells. When swelling is superficial, urticaria eventuates. When the swelling is deeper, angioedema occurs typically affecting the lips and peri-orbital areas of the face, and may also involve the upper airways. Classification of Urticaria Urticaria is classified as Acute and Chronic Chronic spontaneous urticaria is a condition which persists for more than 6 weeks in duration and occurs in the absence of an identifiable provoking factor. Chronic urticaria may be autoimmune, induced by physical stimuli, or idiopathic. NSAIDs, foods, alcohol, stress, and infections may aggravate chronic urticaria but are rarely the cause. Chronic spontaneous urticaria may be associated with other autoimmune conditions including autoimmune thyroid disease, vitiligo, insulin-dependent diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and pernicious anemia. Acute Urticaria describes episodes of urticaria occurring over a period of less than six weeks. Acute urticaria is more commonly seen in children. Approximately 50% of cases of Acute urticaria are idiopathic. Physical Urticaria occurs in localised area after getting in contact with physical stimulus. It persists as chronic recurring condition. Dermatographism is the most common form of physical urticaria, triggered by smoking or scratching of the skin or contact with clothes or other objects Types of Physical Urticaria