cholinergic urticaria

cho·lin·er·gic ur·ti·car·i·a

a form of physical or nonallergic urticaria initiated by heat (for example, hot baths, physical exercise, pyrexia, exposure to sun or to a warm room) or by excitement; the rather distinctive lesions consist of pruritic areas 1-2 mm in diameter surrounded by bright red macules.

Synonym(s): heat urticaria

cholinergic urticaria

Etymology: Gk, chole + ergon, to work; L, urtica, nettle

an abnormal and usually temporary vascular reaction of the skin, often associated with sweating, in susceptible individuals subjected to stress, strong exertion, or hot weather. The condition is characterized by small, pale, itchy papules surrounded by reddish areas. It is caused by the action of acetylcholine on mast cells. Compare urticaria.

Cholinergic urticaria

cho·lin·er·gic ur·ti·car·i·a

(kō'lin-ĕr'jik ŭr'ti-kar'ē-ă)

A form of physical or nonallergic urticaria initiated by heat (e.g., hot baths, physical exercise, pyrexia, exposure to sun or to a warm room) or by excitement; the rather distinctive lesions consist of pruritic areas 1-2 mm in diameter surrounded by bright red macules.
Synonym(s): heat urticaria.

cholinergic urticaria

Urticaria that develops after exposure to high ambient temperatures (e.g., after exercise, a warm shower or bath, or during a fever). The hives that develop are typically small (1 to 3 mm) and are often surrounded by erythema. Synonym: generalized heat urticaria

See also: urticaria