An Urticarial Primer

This primer focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of urticaria. All forms have in common the release of histamine with resultant pruritis. Causes include allergies, medications, infections, cold, heat, and pressure with many being defined as idiopathic. Most diagnoses require only a history and physical examination. Treatments normally include non-sedating antihistamines and avoidances but may require systemic steroids, H2 or leukotriene blockers, immunosuppressants, or anti-IgE therapy. While some forms are short lived, many are recurrent for years. Relief from the pruritis should be expected.