Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026
07:22
Basophil Activation Test for Allergy Diagnosis
Published on: May 31, 2021
Pathophysiology of chronic urticaria.
Lindsey A Brodell1, Lisa A Beck, Sarbjit S Saini
1Department of Dermatology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA.
Summary
The exact cause of chronic urticaria remains unclear, but research suggests autoimmune factors and mast cell activation play key roles. More studies are needed to find effective treatments for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Chronic urticaria is a common skin condition characterized by recurrent hives and angioedema.
- Its pathogenesis is not fully understood, complicating treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the pathogenesis of chronic urticaria, excluding physical urticaria.
- To synthesize current understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving the disease.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed using keywords related to chronic urticaria and its pathogenesis.
- Searches were limited to English-language articles published between 1972 and 2007.
- References from review articles were also examined.
Main Results:
- No single pathogenic mechanism explains all chronic urticaria cases.
- Evidence points to a potential autoimmune serologic mediator in many patients.
- Activation of basophils and mast cells is a central feature in proposed pathogenic theories.
Conclusions:
- Further research is essential to elucidate the precise mechanisms of chronic urticaria development.
- A better understanding of pathogenesis is expected to lead to improved and potentially curative therapies.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
01:26Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
01:17Gastritis-II: Pathophysiology
Gastritis is marked by disruption of the mucosal barrier that usually protects the stomach tissue from digestive juices and manifests in acute and chronic forms.
In acute gastritis, the gastric mucosa becomes swollen and red and undergoes superficial erosion. Superficial ulceration may lead to bleeding.
In chronic gastritis, persistent or repeated insults lead to chronic inflammatory changes and, eventually, thinning or atrophy of the gastric tissue.
Gastritis can stem from various causes, each...
In acute gastritis, the gastric mucosa becomes swollen and red and undergoes superficial erosion. Superficial ulceration may lead to bleeding.
In chronic gastritis, persistent or repeated insults lead to chronic inflammatory changes and, eventually, thinning or atrophy of the gastric tissue.
Gastritis can stem from various causes, each...
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation
01:30Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions
Drug-related allergies are immune-mediated responses triggered by the administration of pharmacological agents. These hypersensitivity reactions are classified based on the immune mechanisms involved. The four primary types—Type I, II, III, and IV—are mediated by different immunological pathways and exhibit distinct clinical manifestations.Type I Hypersensitivity/ IgE-Mediated Reactions: Immunoglobulin E (IgE) immediately mediates Type I hypersensitivity reactions. Upon initial exposure to a...
01:12Chronic Inflammation: Introduction
Chronic inflammation is a prolonged, dysregulated immune response that persists for weeks to years when the inciting stimulus is difficult to eradicate or when self‑antigens drive ongoing reactivity. Morphologically, it is defined by mononuclear cell infiltration, progressive tissue destruction, and concurrent attempts at healing via angiogenesis and fibrosis. Compared with acute inflammation, edema is less prominent while cellular infiltration predominates; triggers include persistent...