Urticaria Diagnosis

Clinical diagnosis is made by close examination of the skin eruptions. Once observed and experienced, the patients can also recognise urticaria.

The exact diagnosis in terms of its causation is made after careful, systematic case-history, by the physician. The patient's cooperation is required to provide proper information and also by eliminating certain food products once suspected.

A careful case analysis and evaluation is required to make a correct diagnosis. A systematic history to evaluate the whole system ruling out certain systemic disease such as endocrine disorders, malignancy, lupus, respiratory disease, other allergic disorders, etc. is called for. Hormonal study and thyroid profile may be indicated if the clinical picture so suggests. Ruling out an uncommon possibility of malignancy if supported by other clinical finding and factors is indicated at times.

A detailed clinical history running through the checklist of various causes and considering the individual as a whole, is more important than superficial, symptomatic medication with anti-allergic medicines or cortisone.