Synonyms
None

Disorder Subdivisions
Urticaria Idiopathic Cold (Familial or Acquired)
Primary Idiopathic Cold Urticaria

General Discussion
Cold rrticaria is a chronic, reactive skin disorder. It is probably the most common form of urticaria (hives). Major symptoms may include abnormal reddening of the skin (erythema), hives and itching after exposure of the skin to cold temperatures.

There are two forms of the disorder: essential (acquired) cold urticaria, and familial (hereditary) cold urticaria. The symptoms of the acquired form become obvious in two to five minutes after exposure to the triggering substance or situation, while it takes 24 to 48 hours for symptoms of familial cold urticaria to appear. Also, symptoms tend to last longer with the familial form, typically about 24 hours although they may remain for as long as 48 hours. With the acquired form, symptoms tend to last for one to two hours.