CONTACT URTICARIA Meaning and
Definition
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Contact urticaria is a localized skin reaction that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritating substance or allergen. It is a type of urticaria, also known as hives or nettle rash, characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, itchy, and red welts on the skin. These welts can vary in size and shape and may be accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation.
The development of contact urticaria is a result of the release of chemicals such as histamine from specific cells in the skin called mast cells. This release is triggered by the immune system's response to the irritating substance or allergen that has come into contact with the skin. Common allergens associated with contact urticaria include certain foods, latex, insect bites, plants, chemicals, and medications.
Contact urticaria can occur within minutes to hours after contact with the offending substance and usually resolves within a few hours to a few days. In some cases, the reaction may become more severe and spread beyond the initial area of contact.
It is important to identify and avoid the specific allergen or irritating substance that triggers contact urticaria to prevent further episodes. Symptomatic relief can be obtained through the use of antihistamines or topical corticosteroids to reduce itching and inflammation. In severe cases or when the reaction spreads extensively, medical intervention may be necessary.
Overall, contact urticaria is a localized skin reaction characterized by the sudden appearance of itchy, red welts on the skin due to direct contact with an allergen or irritating substance.
Etymology of CONTACT URTICARIA
The word "contact" is derived from the Latin word "contactus", which means "touch". It entered the English language in the 16th century.
"Urticaria" is derived from the Latin word "urtica", which means "nettle" or "itchy rash". It stems from the belief that the symptoms of urticaria are similar to those caused by contact with stinging nettle plants. The word "urticaria" was first used in the early 18th century.
Therefore, "contact urticaria" is a term that combines the idea of a skin rash caused by contact with a substance ("contact") with the specific type of rash resembling a nettle sting ("urticaria").
