Autoimmune urticaria
Autoimmune disease causing hives and itching / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Autoimmune urticaria, also known as chronic autoimmune urticaria, is a type of chronic urticaria characterized by the presence of autoantibodies in the patient's immune system that target the body's own mast cells, leading to episodes of hives (urticaria).[2][3] This immunologically distinct type of urticaria is considered autoimmune because the immune system, which normally protects the body from foreign organisms, mistakenly attacks the body's own cells, causing inflammation and other symptoms.[4]
Autoimmune urticaria | |
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A medical illustration depicting urticaria on the palm, wrist and forearm | |
Specialty | Immunology, dermatology |
Symptoms | Hives, pruritus |
Medication | Antihistamines, omalizumab |
Frequency | 0.23% (US)[1] |
The condition is chronic, meaning it persists for more than six weeks, and can last for many years.[5] Symptoms include recurrent episodes of hives, which are red, itchy, and swollen areas on the skin. These episodes can be triggered by various factors, including heat, stress, or for no identifiable reason.[6]
Autoimmune urticaria is a relatively rare condition, affecting a small percentage of the population.[1] However, it can significantly impact the quality of life of those affected due to the unpredictability and discomfort of the symptoms.[7] The exact cause of autoimmune urticaria is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.[8]
Diagnosis is typically based on the clinical history and physical examination, and confirmed by laboratory tests.[9][10] Treatment primarily involves managing symptoms and includes the use of antihistamines, corticosteroids, monoclonal antibodies (omalizumab), and in some cases, immunosuppressive drugs.[11][12]
Despite ongoing research, many aspects of autoimmune urticaria remain poorly understood, and it continues to be a challenging condition to manage. The economic burden is significant, with costs as high as $2050 per year per patient in the United States.[13]