Urticaria Diagnosis

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

Careful case analysis and evaluation are required to make a correct diagnosis. A systematic history to evaluate the whole system ruling out certain systemic diseases 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 is supported by other clinical findings and factors are 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.

Investigations

Following investigations may be required in some cases of Urticaria to conclude the diagnosis and assess the cause of the disease, which can also eventually help determine the prognosis.

• CBC (Complete blood count)
• ESR
• Thyroid profile (T3, T4, TSH)
• CRP (C Reactive Protein)
• IgE 
• Allergy test (Prick test)
• Autologous serum skin test (for autoimmune urticaria)
• Blood sugar
• Biopsy (Only in some cases to rule out conditions such as Urticaria Pigmentosa)

Diseases resembling Urticaria

• Drug reaction, drug rash
• Atopic dermatitis (Eczema)
• Pytiriasis rosea (viral inveciton)
• Erythema multiforme
• Infect bites (Bee bites) 
• Urticaria pigmentosa
• Psoriasis