Cold Urticaria

Cold urticaria is wheals/angioedema on exposure to cold (air/water/objects), presenting with pruritic weals on exposed skin after cold contact, possible systemic anaphylaxis with swimming in cold water. Treatment: H1 antihistamines; avoid cold exposure (esp. swimming in cold water); carry epinephrine auto-injector (risk of anaphylaxis); cold-challenge testing; rule out cryoglobulinemia/cryofibrinogenemia/infection; omalizumab for refractory; follow-up allergy/dermatology.

Common Symptoms

Wheals/angioedema after cold exposure; pruritus; anaphylaxis risk with swimming

Causes and Pathogenesis

Cold-induced mast-cell degranulation (IgE to cold-induced antigens) causes urticaria.

Treatment

Antihistamines; avoid cold; epinephrine; omalizumab for refractory

Preventive Measures

Avoid cold exposure; protective clothing; carry epinephrine.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Allergy/Dermatology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.