Urticaria (2) Flashcards
What is this?
What is its pathophysiology?
➊ Small, itchy lumps on the skin, associated with a patchy erythematous rash
➋ Mast cells release Histamine and other pro-inflammatories into the skin, which may be part of an allergic reaction or an autoimmune reaction
Acute Urticaria:
What is it triggered by?
Mast cell stimulation, which includes:
• Allergens
• Contact with chemicals, latex or stinging nettles
• Medications
• Viral infections
• Insect bites
• Rubbing of the skin
Chronic Urticaria:
What is this?
What is it sub-classified into?
➊ Autoimmune condition where autoantibodies target and stimulate mast cells
➋ • Chronic idiopathic - Recurrent episodes that occur without a clear underlying cause or trigger
• Chronic inducible - Induced by certain triggers, such as:
‣ Sunlight
‣ Temperature change
‣ Exercise
‣ Strong emotions
‣ Hot or cold weather
‣ Pressure (Dermatographism)
• Autoimmune - Associated with an underlying autoimmune condition, such as SLE
How is it managed?
• Antihistamines - Fexofenadine 1st line for chronic urticaria
• Oral steroids may be considered as a short course for severe flares
• In very severe cases, refer to a specialist for treatment
