Hives

Hives (urticaria) is the most common manifestation of Type I hypersenzitivity: It appears in connection to many physical, chemical and other stimuli. It can be a manifestation of vasculitis

Clinical Picture
It appears as a local/generalized formation of 'itchy' bumps with central oedema and peripheral erythema. Acute manifestations subside in a course of a few hours after the termination of exposition to the allergen. There can be a connection to the angioedema.

Therapy
Peroral antihistaminics and local preparations that supress itching are commonly used. If more acute and prominent manifestations are present, epinephrine or glucocorticoids can be used.

Related articles

 * Allergenes
 * Treatment of allergy
 * Quincke's edema