[7] The exact cause of autoimmune urticaria is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.
[9][10] Treatment primarily involves managing symptoms and includes the use of antihistamines, corticosteroids, monoclonal antibodies (omalizumab), and in some cases, immunosuppressive drugs.
[11][12] Despite ongoing research, many aspects of autoimmune urticaria remain poorly understood, and it continues to be a challenging condition to manage.
This understanding began to evolve in the mid to late 20th century as advances in immunology revealed the complex interactions between the immune system and various diseases.
As the understanding of the immune system and its role in disease evolved, researchers began to explore the possibility that some cases of chronic urticaria could be driven by autoimmune processes.
[20] This study demonstrated that sera from patients with CSU could induce histamine release from basophils and cutaneous mast cells, and this effect was mediated by IgG autoantibodies against the alpha subunit of the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRIα).
For example, a study by Sabroe et al. in 1999 showed that intradermal injection of autologous serum caused a wheal and flare reaction (a hallmark of urticaria) in a majority of patients with CSU, providing further evidence of the role of autoantibodies in this condition.
[21] Autoimmune urticaria is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies, which are antibodies that the immune system mistakenly produces against the body's own cells.
[22] In a healthy immune system, antibodies are produced to identify and neutralize foreign bodies such as bacteria and viruses.
These substances cause increased expression of cell adhesion molecules by the endothelium of the post capillary venules, leading to leukocyte recruitment, including eosinophils, which characterize the late phase reaction.
Diagnosing autoimmune urticaria involves a combination of clinical evaluation, diagnostic criteria, and various testing methods.
[32] The process aims to confirm the presence of the disease, identify potential triggers, and rule out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms.
The Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) is a common method used to detect autoantibodies against FcεRI or IgE in the serum.
[34] The differential diagnosis for autoimmune urticaria includes other conditions that can cause hives or similar skin reactions.
The treatment of autoimmune urticaria aims to alleviate symptoms, improve the quality of life, and prevent exacerbations.
The primary goal of treating autoimmune urticaria is to control the symptoms, which can significantly impact the patient's quality of life.
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep hygiene can also help manage symptoms and improve overall health.