Pediatric urticaria and angioedema

Although urticarial lesions and angioedema are common in children, they frequently present challenges for the clinician in terms of identifying a cause and obtaining effective relief. The wide range of triggers implicated in urticaria and angioedema requires a thorough history and occasionally specific testing to confirm or exclude a specific disorder. Although the understanding of the pathophysiology and mediators involved in urticaria is advancing, treatment with antihistamines remains the first-line therapy. The development of second-generation antihistamines is promising treatment for children, whereas other medications are yet to be systematically studied in this age group. The optimal therapeutic regimen may require not only trials of various medications guided by the clinical response and acceptable Side effects, but also empathy, explanations, and reasonable expectations.