Urticaria
Pronunciation: ur-tih-KAIR-ee-uh
A skin condition characterised by transient, pruritic, oedematous wheals (hives) that resolve within 24 hours without leaving permanent skin changes.
Full Definition
Urticaria, commonly known as hives or nettle rash, presents as evanescent erythematous or skin-coloured wheals of variable size accompanied by pruritus or burning. Individual lesions characteristically resolve within 24 hours and leave no residual skin changes, which distinguishes urticaria from urticarial vasculitis. It is classified as acute (<6 weeks) or chronic (≥6 weeks), with chronic urticaria further divided into spontaneous and inducible subtypes. Editors must note that 'urticaria' is the preferred clinical term over 'hives' in formal documents, and that 'angioedema' — swelling of the deeper dermis and subcutis — may co-occur but is a distinct entity.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'urticaria' in formal clinical documents, not 'hives.' Distinguish from angioedema (deeper swelling). 'Urticarial' is the adjectival form (e.g., 'urticarial plaque').
In Context
- "The patient presented with chronic spontaneous urticaria lasting over three months, with no identifiable trigger." — Allergy and dermatology referral letter
- "The editor ensured that 'hives' in the patient-facing leaflet was changed to 'urticaria' in the corresponding clinical guideline document." — Document standardisation review