JAMA Clinical Reviews
Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria
Sep 26, 2024
Pavel Kolkhir, MD, an expert in chronic spontaneous urticaria, teams up with Karen E. Lasser, MD, MPH, a JAMA Senior Editor, to unpack this puzzling condition. They delve into its prevalence and varied symptoms, from itchy wheals to angioedema. The conversation touches on crucial distinctions between autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. They also reveal effective treatment strategies, emphasizing the importance of second-generation antihistamines and advanced options like Omalizumab. The impact on patients' quality of life, including psychological challenges, is also explored.
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Quick takeaways
- Chronic spontaneous urticaria affects about 1% of the population and significantly impairs patients' quality of life due to its persistent symptoms.
- Effective diagnosis requires distinguishing CSU from similar conditions like urticarial vasculitis and may involve laboratory testing for autoimmune disorders.
Deep dives
Understanding Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria
Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a persistent and often autoimmune skin condition characterized by hives that last for over six weeks, typically affecting individuals for three to five years. It manifests as itchy wheals and can accompany angioedema, which is deep swelling of the skin. Epidemiologically, about 1% of the general population is affected by CSU, with the likelihood of experiencing at least one episode significantly higher over a lifetime. The condition's prevalence is on the rise, and it can present with varied symptoms, making it essential to understand its classification as acute or chronic based on duration.
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