10 Causes of Skin Rashes
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
Cause #1: Urticaria
Urticaria, otherwise commonly known as hives, is characterized by raised and erythematous wheals that develop because of the release of vasoactive substances, especially histamine from mast cells. It can be either acute or chronic. Acute urticaria lasts fewer than 6 weeks, while chronic urticaria is characterized by recurring episodes that last longer than 6 weeks.
Urticaria can be triggered by many mechanisms, which are divided into allergic and nonallergic. However, in about one-half of urticaria cases, the triggering factor cannot be identified.
