Autoimmune Urticaria

Autoimmune urticaria is a skin problem found in patients who develop an idiopathic urticaria due to an autoimmune trigger, such as different antibodies. Swelling, redness, and itching caused by autoimmune disorders is called autoimmune urticaria. These autoimmune disorders are characterized as the malfunction of the immune system, which causes it to attack itself. Most of the cases (nearly 50%) of chronic idiopathic urticaria are the result of an autoimmune trigger. Such patients develop autoantibodies directed at the receptor FceRI, which is located on skin mast cells.

Mast cells are widespread in human skin and have the primary task to defend the body against diseases. However, when they are disturbed by allergic or non-allergic causes, they release histamines, which cause urticaria. This process is called autoimmune urticaria.

Autoimmune Chronic Urticaria

Chronic stimulation of the receptor FceRI leads to autoimmune chronic urticaria, which tends to last for a longer period of time than usual; for example, more than six weeks. It is a rare condition; however, it can be extremely problematic for the patient due to itchiness.

Autoimmune Urticaria Symptoms

Autoimmune urticaria can be characterized by many different symptoms, including raised, blanched wheals, anaphylactic reaction, pruritis, angioedema, and rapid onset.

Autoimmune Urticaria Treatment

Here are some valuable treatments for autoimmune urticaria; however, if the problem persists or becomes more severe you must consult an allergist immediately.

  • Start with the treatment of underlying disorders. 
  • Avoid any physical or drug trigger.
  • If the patient is suffering from thyroid disease, it needs to be cured first.
  • Some systemic antihistamines, including hydroxyzine, doxepin, and cimetidine may be helpful. The patient may take them alone or in combination with each other or with nonsedating antihistamines, such as loratidine, cetirizine, or fexofenadine.
  • If the patient also has yeast, tinea, or bacterial infections of the skin, mucosa, or sinuses, they must be treated first.
  • For self-administration, patient should be given EpiPen.

