Urticaria

Question 1

What is the pathophysiology of Urticaria?

Answer 1

Increased levels of histamine released in the skin causes increased permeability.
Fluid collects and causes localised swelling/itching.

Question 2

What are the features of Urticaria?

Answer 2

Lesions that may be round, annular or polycyclic
Transient pink wheals
Raised itchy rash with an erythematous base

Question 3

What is the treatment of Urticaria?

Answer 3

Antihistamines
Corticosteroids
Patient education about triggers
Usually settles within a few days

Question 4

What investigations can be done in a patient with Urticaria?

Answer 4

Bloods
Urinalysis
Allergy testing

Question 5

What are some of the associated features of Urticaria?

Answer 5

Angioedema

Anaphylaxis

Question 6

Define Acute Urticaria

Answer 6

Urticaria that goes within 6 weeks

Question 7

Define chronic Urticaria

Answer 7

Persistent or intermittent Urticaria that lasts for more than 6 weeks

Question 8

What specific treatment can be used if NSAIDs are causing Urticaria?

Answer 8

Leukotriene receptor antagonists

Question 9

What are some of the causes of Urticaria?

Answer 9

Precipitating factor eg food, drugs, cold/hot weather

Made worse by caffeine, alcohol, stress, heat