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Practical algorithm for diagnosing patients with recurrent wheals or angioedema
Author(s) -
Maurer M.,
Magerl M.,
Metz M.,
Siebenhaar F.,
Weller K.,
Krause K.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
allergy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.363
H-Index - 173
eISSN - 1398-9995
pISSN - 0105-4538
DOI - 10.1111/all.12153
Subject(s) - angioedema , medicine , dermatology , medical diagnosis , differential diagnosis , hereditary angioedema , algorithm , radiology , pathology , computer science
Background Chronic urticaria is a common disorder characterized by recurrent wheals, angioedema, or both. Several differential diagnoses need to be considered in patients presenting with wheals and/or angioedema. These include rare diseases such as autoinflammatory syndromes and urticarial vasculitis in patients with recurrent wheals and bradykinin‐mediated angioedema in patients with recurrent swellings. Aim and Result In order to not miss these conditions, we have developed a symptom‐based diagnostic algorithm for the management of patients with wheals and/or angioedema. Discussion and Conclusion By asking the right questions and performing a limited diagnostic workup as suggested here, this algorithm may help to establish the right diagnosis and treat patients early and more effectively.