Urticarial allergic eruption

Urticarial Allergic Eruption (also known as urticaria or hives) is a type of skin reaction that presents as red, raised, itchy welts. These welts can vary in size and can appear anywhere on the body. Urticaria is often caused by an allergic reaction to a substance that the body recognizes as foreign. The condition is a common manifestation of allergy and affects approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives.

Causes

Urticarial allergic eruptions can be triggered by various factors including foods, medications, insect stings, physical stimuli (such as pressure, temperature, or exercise), and infections. Common food allergens include nuts, shellfish, eggs, and dairy products. Medications that can cause urticaria include antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In many cases, however, the exact cause of urticaria remains unidentified, which is referred to as idiopathic urticaria.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of urticaria is the appearance of welts on the skin that are red, itchy, and sometimes swollen. These welts can appear suddenly and may vary in size, ranging from a few millimeters to several inches in diameter. The welts can also merge to form larger areas of raised skin. Other symptoms may include a burning sensation or pain over the affected areas. In some cases, urticaria can be accompanied by angioedema, which is a deeper swelling in the skin that can affect the eyes, lips, hands, feet, and genitals.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of urticarial allergic eruption primarily involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. Doctors may also perform allergy tests to identify potential triggers. In cases where an underlying condition is suspected, additional tests such as blood tests or skin biopsies may be conducted.

Treatment

Treatment for urticaria focuses on relieving symptoms and avoiding known triggers. Antihistamines are commonly prescribed to reduce itching and swelling. For chronic or severe cases, other medications such as corticosteroids, leukotriene receptor antagonists, or immunosuppressants may be recommended. In cases of acute urticaria caused by an allergic reaction, epinephrine may be administered.

Prevention

Preventing urticarial allergic eruptions involves identifying and avoiding triggers. Keeping a diary of outbreaks and potential triggers can help in identifying the cause. For individuals with known allergies, avoiding allergens and carrying emergency medication such as epinephrine auto-injectors is crucial.

See Also

• Allergic reaction
• Angioedema
• Dermatology
• Immunology