Clinical Reflections®: Reflecting on Errors and Missed Opportunities in Chronic Urticaria

Chronic urticaria (CU), also referred to as chronic idiopathic urticaria or chronic spontaneous urticaria is an intensely-pruritic inflammatory skin disorder. Chronic urticaria can last from 6 weeks to several years, and often has a profound negative impact on patients’ quality of life. Chronic urticaria is often considered a notoriously difficult condition to treat. Treatment decisions can be clouded by confusion amongst clinicians regarding evidenced-based treatment guidelines, excessive reliance on personal experience and anecdotal information, and lack of familiarity or comfort with newer therapeutic options.