What is dermatological urticaria?

Dermatologic urticaria, also known as dermatographism, is a type of skin disorder in which the skin is extremely sensitive to touch or pressure. This condition is often called skin writing due to the development of a raised, itchy, red rash when the skin is touched or scratched. Dermatologic urticaria is thought to be caused by some type of allergic skin condition, although the possible allergens that lead to this condition have not been identified. Treatment for dermatographic urticaria often involves the use of antihistamines, which are medications used to treat a variety of allergic conditions.

Hives are an itchy, red rash that is often raised and itchy. People who have dermatographic urticaria may develop hives whenever the skin is scratched, rubbed, or irritated. Other factors, such as temperature changes or stress, can cause an outbreak of hives. This skin condition can affect anyone at any age. Dermatologic urticaria may go away on its own after several years, may reduce in intensity over time, or may last a lifetime.

In many cases, the symptoms of dermatographic urticaria will appear within a few minutes of the skin being gently stroked or scratched with an object such as a pen. These symptoms usually go away without treatment in about an hour. In other forms of this skin condition, symptoms can last for several hours. One such example is delayed pressure dermatographism, which can cause pain and a burning sensation that can last for several hours after pressure is applied to the skin.

Getting a diagnosis for this skin condition is a simple procedure. The doctor will stroke the skin with an object, such as a pen, and then check for the presence of raised red marks along the path taken by the pen, indicating a positive diagnosis of dermatographic urticaria. Diagnosis of delayed pressure dermatographism often involves placing an object, such as a heavy backpack, on the shoulders for a period of time and then checking the skin for symptoms.

Medical treatment is not always necessary for dermatographic urticaria. If the rash caused by this skin condition is not painful or itchy, no treatment is indicated. Those who experience symptoms are usually given prescription antihistamines for use whenever symptoms appear. Cortisone creams can also help relieve some of the itching. Infants and young children diagnosed with this condition are usually given antihistamines until they are old enough to report if symptoms are bothersome.

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