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Disease found:Urticaria (Cold)
Current as of:October 8, 2024
Disease Overview:Chronic, reactive skin disorder in response to exposure to cold. Symptoms can last between 1 and 48 hours based on type. Familial type traced to chromosome 1q40. Other forms considered to be autoimmune disorders. [more info]
Signs and Symptoms:Erythema, hives, itching after exposure to cold temperatures. May be associated with fever, headache, anxiety, fatigue, palpitations, wheezing, or syncope.
Diagnosis:Place an ice cube on the skin of the subject's forearm for 4-5 minutes. If hives occurs within 10 minutes of stimulus removal, patient likely has Cold Urticaria. In some cases, 20-30 minutes of exposure to cold air may cause the symptoms.
Treatment:H1 receptor blockers and H2 receptor blockers (Tegamet) are effective. Can also use epinephrine, diphenhydramine, cyproheptadine, hydrochloride, and cetirizine.
Clinical Management:Prevent symptoms with warm clothing, avoiding cold baths, swimming in cold water. Patient education, stimulus avoidance, and medications.
Referral:Allergists and immunologists work with primary care providers to educate and manage patients.Referral to Medical Genetics Department, if available. Initial virtual care is also available through organizations like TeleRare Health.
Clinical Trials:Many clinical trials are currently recruiting.

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