Urticaria in the elderly.

Urticaria is a common disorder affecting approximately 15-25% of the population at some point in their life. We can assume that with the advancement of medical therapeutics, which have in turn prolonged the duration of life, the incidence of drug induced urticaria will increase in the geriatric population. Other common causes that need to be considered are allergy, autoimmune conditions and stress. Urticaria is characterized by transient pruritic wheals or erythematous patches on the skin. The signs and symptoms usually resolve in less than 24 hrs, leaving no residual scar or discoloration. Generally, the etiology of urticaria remains unknown in 75-90% of patients. In this article we discuss pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and treatment of urticaria in the elderly. A complete medical evaluation and age appropriate screening should be performed in all elderly patients in a primary care setting. We should also weigh risk versus benefits of each prescribed medication to decrease morbidity and improve the quality of life.