Urticaria

Omalizumab has emerged as a very promising treatment option for patients with CSU (Chronic spontaneous urticaria).This editorial reviews mechanisms of action of omalizumab, efficacy, cost and potential side effect profile.

Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a common autoimmune skin condition characterized by spontaneously recurring hives for six weeks or longer. We review the mechanisms of action of omalizumab, efficacy, cost and potential side effect profile for treating CIU.

Chronic urticaria is defined as hives, typically occurring daily, for greater than 6 weeks duration. The associations between chronic urticaria, thyroid disease, and other autoimmune disorders, as well as the implications that this holds for therapeutic intervention are reviewed.

Urticaria and angioedema and some forms of this disorder may be increasing in both prevalence and severity due to changes in medications, environment and other factors. This review focuses on a rational approach to differential diagnosis and therapy of the most common forms of urticaria and angioedema.

Pruritus, or itch, is a common sensation that causes a person to want to scratch. It is a complex process that may negatively impact quality of life. This overview provides information regarding the various management and treatment options for pruritus.

Chronic urticaria is a common dermatologic condition that is idiopathic in most cases. Antihistamines are the mainstays of treatment for this condition. The newer, second and third generation antihistamines are the preferred agents because of their improved safety profile and comparable efficacy to the first generation antihistamines.

Polymorphous light eruption (PLE) and solar urticaria (SU) are two photodermatoses that are induced by ultraviolet radiation and sometimes by visible light. This article will review the various means of preventing PLE and SU with an emphasis on the role of sunscreens.