[Urticaria. "From bench to bedside"].

A number of recent epidemiologic and experimental studies have enhanced our knowledge of the etiology and pathogenesis of urticaria. In addition, new instruments for diagnosing urticaria variants and for assessing the quality of life in urticaria patients have been developed. Finally, several clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of novel treatment approaches for urticaria, while other therapeutic concepts are under development. Here, we provide a brief review of selected findings from these recent reports and a discussion of their relevance for clinical practice.