Idiopathic acquired cold urticaria in North India

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Urticaria is a common skin condition.
• Cold urticaria is a physical urticaria triggered by cold exposure.
• Understanding the specific triggers and diagnostic methods for cold urticaria is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical characteristics of cold urticaria in North Indian patients.
• To evaluate the diagnostic utility of the cold-pressure test versus ice-contact test in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 43 patients with cold urticaria was studied over two years in North India.
• Patients reported triggers such as cold water baths, cold winds, and evaporation.
• Diagnostic tests included the refrigeration test for cryo-proteins and the cold-pressure test (cryo-stimulation test).

Main Results:

• The majority of patients were healthy, aged 10-40 years.
• Common triggers included cold water baths, cold winds, and evaporation of water/sweat.
• Only one patient reacted to direct ice contact, while 38 out of 43 showed an exaggerated erythema response to the cold-pressure test.

Conclusions:

• Cold urticaria in this North Indian cohort is primarily triggered by indirect cold exposure.
• The cold-pressure test appears more sensitive than direct ice contact for diagnosing cold urticaria in this population.
• Further research into the pathophysiology and management of cold urticaria is warranted.