RACGP
Australian Family Physician
Australian Family Physician

Advertising

Volume 39, Issue 3, March 2010

Chronic urticaria Assessment and treatment

Suran Fernando Andrew Broadfoot
Download article
Cite this article    BIBTEX    REFER    RIS

Background
Chronic urticaria is a common condition encountered in general practice and a frequent source of referral to the clinical immunologist, allergist and dermatologist.
Objective
This article discusses the assessment and management of chronic urticaria in the general practice setting.
Discussion
Chronic urticaria is defined as the occurrence of transient wheals lasting more than 6 weeks in duration. In 80% of cases, a cause is not identified and this is classified as chronic idiopathic urticaria. A physical trigger, vasculitis or systemic disease account for a smaller proportion of cases. Allergic causes are rarely responsible. A detailed history provides the most useful information in determining the presence of chronic urticaria and a possible aetiology. Apart from thyroid function tests and thyroid autoantibodies, other investigations should only be performed if clinically indicated. Second generation antihistamines are the mainstay of treatment and usually twice daily regimens are required for adequate control. H2 antagonists, doxepin and immunomodulation may be necessary in some patients.

Download the PDF for the full article.


Download article PDF

Advertising

Australian Family Physician RACGP

Printed from Australian Family Physician - https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2010/march/chronic-urticaria-assessment-and-treatment
© The Australian College of General Practitioners www.racgp.org.au