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Dermatographism

1901

Urticaria factitia.

Dermatographic urticaria, also known as dermatographism or “skin writing”,  is marked by the appearance of weals or welts on the skin as a result of scratching or firm stroking of the skin.

Seen in 4–5% of the population, it is one of the most common types of urticaria,  in which the skin becomes raised and inflamed when stroked, scratched, rubbed, and sometimes even slapped.

The skin reaction usually becomes evident soon after the scratching and disappears within 30 minutes.

Dermatographism is the most common form of a subset of chronic hives.

Dermatographic urticaria is marked by the appearance of weals or welts on the skin as a result of scratching or firm stroking of the skin. 

The skin becomes raised and inflamed when stroked, scratched, rubbed, and sometimes even slapped.

The cause of Dermatographic urticaria is unknown.

It may be preceded by a viral infection, antibiotic therapy, or emotional upset. 

In most cases, the cause is unknown, although it may be preceded by a viral infection, antibiotic therapy, or emotional upset.

Dermatographism is diagnosed by applying pressure by stroking or scratching the skin.

The hives should develop within a few minutes.

Unless the skin is highly sensitive and reacts continually, treatment is not needed.

Antihistamines can reduce the response.

Characterized by pruritus and wheeling of the skin due to shear forces, typically scratching or rubbing.

Entails local histamine release generated by pressure applied to the skin.

It can be elicited by stroke in the skin with a firm object.

Symptoms can last for one and a half to two hours.

It is a mast cell driven disease in which histamine and other mediators released from activated mast cells resulting in vasodilation, sensory nerve activation, and plasma extravasation.

Pathogenesis remains uncertain.

Diagnosis is confirmed for using a firm object to stroke the skin, usually at the volar forearm or upper back which provokes a typical wheal and flare response, known as the Darier sign.

Symptomatic treatment is the mainstay of therapy.

Unless the skin is highly sensitive and reacts continually, treatment is not needed. 

Taking antihistamines can reduce the response in cases that are annoying to the person.

H1 antihistamines are the first line treatment.

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