Related Experiment Videos
Urticaria and angioedema
1Department of Dermatology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA.
Dermatologic Clinics
|January 1, 1996
Summary
This article details a rational approach to diagnosing and managing urticaria (hives) and angioedema (swelling). It emphasizes understanding causes for prevention and treating chronic cases as a mast cell disorder.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Urticaria and angioedema are common conditions requiring a systematic diagnostic and management approach.
- Understanding the underlying pathophysiology is crucial for effective patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline a rational pathophysiologic approach for allergists and dermatologists managing urticaria and angioedema.
- To identify recognized causes for the prevention of acute urticaria.
- To emphasize the concept of chronic urticaria as a "twitchy mast cell" syndrome and present pharmacologic management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of recognized causes of acute urticaria.
- Pathophysiologic approach to diagnosis.
- Discussion of pharmacologic management strategies for chronic urticaria.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive framework for identifying causes of acute urticaria is presented.
- Chronic urticaria is characterized as a mast cell disorder.
- Safe and effective pharmacologic "gymnastics" for patient management are detailed.
Conclusions:
- A rational, pathophysiologic approach enables effective management of urticaria and angioedema.
- Identifying triggers is key for preventing acute episodes.
- Understanding chronic urticaria as a mast cell disorder guides therapeutic interventions.