Urticaria and Pruritus

Urticaria, or “hives,” represents a dermatologic allergic reaction, of which there are specific types. They are typically pruritic, white, or red nonpitting plaques.

Urticaria is caused by dilation of blood vessels and edema within the epidermis. Classic hives are typically 10 to 15 millimeters (mm) in diameter, will blanch with pressure, and typically result from an allergic trigger. For athletes, classic urticaria may result from exposure to medications such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which may lead to mast cell degranulation. However, ...