Urticaria and Allergy-Mediated Conditions.

Abstract

Urticaria is a common condition that involves pruritic, raised skin wheals. Although urticaria is a benign, self-limiting condition, it may cause frustration for patients, often because of its chronicity and its tendency to recur. It can also be a life-threatening allergic reaction. Diagnosis is made clinically. It affects 20% of the general population. The first-line treatment for nonremitting cases includes H-1anti-histamines. However, other therapies may be employed. Other allergy-mediated skin conditions include angioedema, contact dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. Diagnosis is clinical, and management focuses on prevention, avoiding triggers, and treating the itching and inflammation that accompany these conditions.