Urticaria (Hives)


This series explores the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and lived experience of urticaria, also known as hives. From understanding chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) to addressing care disparities in skin of color, this course combines clinical knowledge with real-world stories to support patients, caregivers, and providers.

The Basics

Start here to understand what urticaria is, what causes it, how it’s diagnosed and treated, and what it’s like to live with this often misunderstood condition.

  • Covers types of urticaria (acute, chronic, inducible), common triggers, diagnostic challenges, and the role of allergists.

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  • Explains what CSU is, why it occurs without a clear trigger, and what makes it different from other forms of hives.

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  • Details the process of diagnosing CSU and ruling out other conditions through history and exclusion.

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  • Reviews CSU treatment pathways, including antihistamines, omalizumab (Xolair), cyclosporine, and clinical tools like UAS7.

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  • A patient perspective on navigating CSU, mental health, and the importance of self-advocacy.

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Beyond the Basics

Dive deeper into chronic urticaria, treatment options, what to do when symptoms persist or don’t respond to standard care and explore how hives are often overlooked or misdiagnosed in Black and Latinx communities.

  • Addresses common myths and misunderstandings, helping patients refine their knowledge and challenge misinformation.

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  • Focuses on clinical trials, new biologics, and what's next in CSU treatment.

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  • Explores disparities in diagnosis and care, crucial for clinicians and patients seeking culturally competent care.

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  • A powerful lived-experience story that adds depth and real-world context to the clinical episodes.

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  • Focuses on cultural, linguistic, and access barriers for Latinx patients managing chronic hives.

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Living with a chronic illness can feel like an endless climb. Dr. G and Kortney are here to help you reach the summit.