Dermographism
Pronunciation: dur-moh-GRAF-iz-um
A form of physical urticaria in which firm stroking of the skin produces a linear wheal-and-flare response within minutes.
Full Definition
Dermographism, also rendered as dermatographism, is considered the most common type of physical urticaria. The reaction is caused by mast cell degranulation triggered by mechanical pressure on the skin. In editorial work, both spellings appear in authoritative texts; 'dermographism' is preferred in British English and 'dermatographism' in American English. Editors should flag inconsistency within a single document. The term is sometimes colloquially called 'skin writing' and may appear in patient education materials in that simplified form.
Usage
Usage note: Both 'dermographism' and 'dermatographism' are acceptable; standardise to one spelling throughout a document. Flag if the author alternates between spellings.
In Context
- "Symptomatic dermographism was confirmed using a dermographometer, with wheals persisting for over 30 minutes." — Clinical case report
- "The patient reported that tight clothing exacerbated her dermographism significantly." — Outpatient dermatology consultation letter