Urticaria, commonly known as ‘hives’, is a skin rash which can have allergic and non-allergic causes. This book is a concise guide to different forms of the condition, from definition, classification and epidemiology, to pathogenesis, investigation and prognosis.

The book is comprised of 21 chapters, beginning with history, classification, immunology and diagnosis of urticaria. Subsequent chapters cover various associated conditions, pharmacology of antihistamines, treatment, and different types of urticaria test.

The chapter on urticaria vasculitis describes factors which differentiate it from Lupus and ordinary urticaria. Autoserum therapy, tests which determine the severity of urticaria, and the symptoms of dermatographism are also described in detail. A separate chapter provides information on acute urticaria and urticaria in children caused by biting insects.

With full colour images and illustrations throughout, Urticaria is an essential guide to the identification and treatment of this condition for dermatologists.

Key points

• Concise guide to identification and treatment of different forms of urticaria
• Separate chapter on acute urticaria and urticaria in children caused by biting insects
• Full colour images and illustrations throughout