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Urticaria pigmentosa

Definition

Urticaria pigmentosa is a skin disease that produces lesions and intense itching. If you rub the lesions, hives may develop.

Alternative Names

Mastocytosis; Mastocytoma

Causes

Urticaria pigmentosa is one of several forms of mastocytosis, which occurs where there are too many inflammatory cells (mast cells) in the skin.

Urticaria pigmentosa is most often seen in children, but it can also occur in adults.

Symptoms

The main symptom is brownish lesions on skin. Rubbing the skin sore causes a hive-like bump. Younger children may develop a fluid-filled blister if it is scratched.

The face may also become flushed.

In severe cases, the following symptoms may occur:

Exams and Tests

  • Skin biopsy to confirm an increase in the number of mast cells
  • Urine histamine

Treatment

Antihistamines may relieve symptoms such as itching and flushing. Discuss the choice of antihistamine with your child's health care provider. Other medications may be recommended for symptoms of more severe and unusual forms of urticaria pigmentosa.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Urticaria pigmentosa goes away by puberty in about half of the affected children. Symptoms usually get better in others as they grow into adulthood.

In adults, urticaria pigmentosa may develop into a more serious condition called systemic mastocytosis.

Possible Complications

Discomfort from itching, and possible self-consciousness about the "spots," are the primary complications. Other problems such as diarrhea and fainting are rare.

Certain medications may trigger flares of urticaria pigmentosa. Discuss these with your doctor.

Bee stings may also cause severe allergic reactions in some patients with urticaria pigmentosa. Your doctor may advise you to carry an injectable epinephrine kit (such as EpiPen or Twinject) to be used in case of a bee sting.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your child has symptoms of urticaria pigmentosa.

Review Date: 10/28/2008
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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