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Cold stimulation test and histamine release in primary acquired cold urticaria
M C Capulong1, M Tomikawa, K Tahara
1Department of Allergy and Immunology, National Children's Hospital, and Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
International Archives of Allergy and Immunology
|December 31, 1997
Summary
This study investigated cold urticaria in a young boy, finding that cold exposure triggers widespread histamine release. This systemic reaction occurs regardless of where blood is drawn, confirming a body-wide response to cold stimuli.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Allergy
Background:
- Cold urticaria is a condition causing hives upon cold exposure.
- Assessing systemic histamine release in cold urticaria is crucial for understanding its pathophysiology.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old boy presented with urticaria after cold air exposure and swimming.
- He also experienced seasonal asthma and exercise-induced wheezing.
- Cold stimulation tests were performed to evaluate primary acquired cold urticaria.
Findings:
- Urticaria and pruritus appeared within 5 minutes of cold challenge in both tests.
- Plasma histamine levels peaked at 15 minutes post-stimulation.
- Histamine was released systemically, irrespective of blood sample location (challenged vs. unchallenged sites).
Implications:
- Cold stimulation induces a systemic histamine release in patients with cold urticaria.
- This finding supports the understanding of cold urticaria as a systemic allergic response.
- Further research can explore targeted systemic treatments for cold urticaria.