URTICARIA - THE DIAGNOSTIC CHALLENGE OF HIVES

Hives pose a diagnostic challenge to physicians. With an acute episode , a careful look for possible triggers and relief of symptoms with H-1 antihistamines are usually sufficient. For both urticaria and angioed ema, the most helpful diagnostic tool may be a carefully taken medical history, including a family history. When a patient's urticaria lasts for more than 6 weeks, further physical and laboratory evaluation is warranted Treatment of chronic urticaria generally involves the use of antihistamines first. Corticosteroids are to be avoided, if possible.