Cold urticaria
Background
- Hypersensitivity to cold air or water which may lead to fatal anaphylaxis
Clinical Features
Differential Diagnosis
Acute allergic reaction
- Allergic reaction/urticaria
- Anaphylaxis
- Angioedema
- Anxiety attack
- Asthma exacerbation
- Carcinoid syndrome
- Cold urticaria
- Contrast induced allergic reaction
- Scombroid
- Shock
- Transfusion reaction
Cold injuries
- Generalized
- Freezing
- Non-freezing
Management
- Treat similarly to urticarial lesions from other causes (i.e. antihistamines)
- Avoidance of cold is recommended
Disposition
- Outpatient