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Published on: December 15, 2011
Cold urticaria associated with acute serologic toxoplasmosis
J C Miralles López1, F R López Andreu, F Sánchez-Gascón
1Allergy Section, University General Hospital, Murcia, Spain. JuanC.Miralles@carm.es
Allergologia Et Immunopathologia
|June 11, 2005
Summary
Cold urticaria, a skin reaction to cold, was observed in a patient with acute toxoplasmosis. This case highlights a potential link between infectious diseases and cold-induced hives.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cold urticaria is a condition characterized by skin reactions to cold exposure.
- Infectious diseases like mononucleosis and HIV have been previously associated with urticaria.
- The link between acute toxoplasmosis and cold urticaria has not been extensively documented.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old male presented with pruritus and papular lesions upon cold exposure.
- An ice-cube test was positive, confirming cold urticaria.
- Serologic tests revealed acute toxoplasmosis (positive IgM and elevated IgG for Toxoplasma gondii) and transient cryoglobulinemia.
Findings:
- The patient's cold urticaria symptoms were associated with acute serologic toxoplasmosis.
- Toxoplasma gondii antibody levels (IgG and IgM) fluctuated over 14 months.
- Cryoglobulinemia was present initially but resolved over time.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential association between acute toxoplasmosis and the development of cold urticaria.
- Further research is warranted to explore the immunologic mechanisms linking toxoplasmosis and cold urticaria.
- Understanding this association may lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients presenting with unexplained cold urticaria.
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