Publications

Urticaria and angioedema are among the most common conditions evaluated by specialists in allergy and immunology and dermatology, but are perhaps also among the most poorly understood. Up to 20% of the general population will experience urticaria during their lifetime; chronic urticaria affects 1% of the population at any given time. Likewise, an estimated 10% to 20% of the population experience angioedema, and the overall prevalence of recurrent angioedema is estimated to be 0.5%. Yet, despite being relatively common, in clinical practice and across all age groups,1 urticaria and angioedema are often poorly managed and frequently remain frustrating and debilitating for many affected patients. Challenges contributing to this include a long delay in diagnosis and high rates of misdiagnoses, insufficient knowledge of root causes, relevant triggers of exacerbation and aggravating factors, inadequate monitoring of recurrent disruptive signs and symptoms, and the use of ineffective therapies.