Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 14, 2026
07:22
Basophil Activation Test for Allergy Diagnosis
Published on: May 31, 2021
Chronic urticaria--assessment and treatment
Suran Fernando1, Andrew Broadfoot
1Department of Clinical Immunology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales. sfernando@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au
Australian Family Physician
|April 7, 2010
Summary
Chronic urticaria, often idiopathic, requires careful history taking for diagnosis. Standard treatment involves second-generation antihistamines, with other options available for persistent cases.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- General Practice
Background:
- Chronic urticaria is a prevalent condition seen in primary care.
- It frequently leads to specialist referrals to immunology, allergy, and dermatology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the assessment and management strategies for chronic urticaria.
- Focuses on the general practice setting.
Main Methods:
- Detailed patient history is crucial for diagnosis and identifying potential causes.
- Investigations like thyroid function tests are considered only when clinically indicated.
Main Results:
- Chronic urticaria is defined by wheals lasting over 6 weeks.
- In 80% of cases, the cause remains unidentified (chronic idiopathic urticaria).
- Allergic causes are uncommon; physical triggers, vasculitis, or systemic diseases are less frequent causes.
Conclusions:
- Second-generation antihistamines are the primary treatment, often requiring twice-daily dosing.
- Additional treatments such as H2 antagonists, doxepin, or immunomodulation may be needed for refractory cases.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management
IntroductionNephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder marked by excessive protein loss in the urine, leading to various systemic complications. This condition often results from damage to the glomeruli—the kidney's filtering units—causing proteinuria, low blood protein levels, and fluid retention. Understanding the assessment, diagnosis, and management of nephrotic syndrome is essential for effective treatment and prevention of further kidney damage.AssessmentPatient History: Document any history...
01:30Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity, also known as a hypersensitivity reaction or allergic reaction, is a condition where the body's immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance. Such substances, that cause hypersensitivity are referred to as an allergen, could be something typically harmless to most people, like pollen or certain foods.
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
01:20Rheumatic Heart Disease IV: Nursing Management
AssessmentA comprehensive assessment is essential in managing a patient with rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Begin with obtaining a detailed medical history, including recent streptococcal infections, a history of rheumatic fever, or previously diagnosed rheumatic heart disease. Assess the patient for symptoms such as fever, chest pain, widespread joint pain (arthralgia), tachycardia, pericardial friction rub, muffled heart sounds, heart murmurs, peripheral edema, subcutaneous nodules, and...
01:29Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
The management of chronic pancreatitis is multifaceted, involving a comprehensive approach that includes thorough assessment, diagnostic testing, and a variety of management strategies.
Assessment:
Assessment:
01:24Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progressively impairs multiple body systems due to the accumulation of uremic toxins, which disrupt cellular functions across various organs.Neurologic symptomsNeurologic symptoms often arise early in CKD, as uremic toxin buildup drives changes in cognitive and motor functions. Patients frequently experience fatigue, headache, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and, in severe cases, seizures. Peripheral neuropathy commonly manifests as burning sensations in the...
01:18Chronic Kidney Disease IV: Nursing Management
Nursing management is essential for preventing complications, maintaining stability, and improving patients' quality of life in chronic kidney disease (CKD). By using a structured approach, nurses help slow CKD progression and support effective patient care.1. Comprehensive patient assessmentEffective management begins with nurses reviewing the patient’s medical history, and identifying key risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, and nephrotoxic drug use. Nurses assess signs of fluid...