Aguilar HN, Segura MN, Del Rivero HL

Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 82-87
PDF size: 67.02 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Although there are few studies on the prevalence of urticaria, it is considered that approximately 25% of the general population have some form of urticaria during their life. Chronic urticaria (CU) is characterized by the presence of blotches daily or most days of the week, for more than six weeks. When the cause of urticaria is not identified is considered as chronic idiopathic urticaria (ICU), present in up to 80% of cases. The incidence is higher in women UCI 2:1, 30-40% of the ICU is of autoimmune origin. Autoimmune chronic urticaria (UCA) is caused by autoantibodies against the high affinity receptor for IgE (FcεRI) and less frequently, anti-IgE antibodies, leading to activation of mast cells and basophils, causing histamine release and other proinflammatory mediators. The autologous serum test is used as a screening test for the UCA, has a sensitivity and specificity of 70 and 80% respectively. The gold standard for diagnosis of UCA is evidence of histamine release of basophils. The treatment of UCA is to H1 antihistamines. Oral corticosteroids can be used in acute flares. Refractory cases have been shown to respond to cyclosporine and other immunomodulators. The average duration of illness is 3-5 years and a fifth of the cases UCA persists beyond five years. The following review presents the autoimmune mechanisms, clinical manifestations, classification, and the different treatments.