A timed study of the histopathology, direct immunofluorescence and ultrastructural findings in idiopathic cold-contact urticaria over a 24-h period

The histopathology, immunofluorescence and ultrastructure of skin in idiopathic cold-contact urticaria have been studied over the 24 h following the application of a cold stimulus sufficient to provoke a confluent weal on the anterior thigh. Biopsies were taken 10 min, 2 h and 24 h after ice removal...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Clinical and experimental dermatology 1989-11, Vol.14 (6), p.416-420
Main Authors: LAWLOR, F., BLACK, A. KOBZA, BREATHNACH, A.S., McKEE, P., SARATHCHANDRA, P., BHOGAL, B., ISAACS, J.L., GREAVES, M.W., WINKELMANN, R.K.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adolescent
Adult
Allergic diseases
Biological and medical sciences
Blood Platelets
Cell Degranulation
Cold Temperature - adverse effects
Female
Fluorescent Antibody Technique
Humans
Immunopathology
Male
Mast Cells
Medical sciences
Middle Aged
Skin allergic diseases. Stinging insect allergies
Time Factors
Urticaria - pathology
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Summary:The histopathology, immunofluorescence and ultrastructure of skin in idiopathic cold-contact urticaria have been studied over the 24 h following the application of a cold stimulus sufficient to provoke a confluent weal on the anterior thigh. Biopsies were taken 10 min, 2 h and 24 h after ice removal. Considerable epidermal and dermal oedema was present. Type I and Type II mast-cell degranulation was noted but was not universal. Lymphatics and capillaries were dilated and endothelial cells showed an increase in micropinocytotic activity, without evident vasculitis. In two cases packed platelets were seen within vessel lumina. There was no change in the infiltrating dermal cell population and direct immunofluorescence was negative. The evidence suggests that idiopathic cold-contact urticaria is an exudative rather than an infiltrative process.
ISSN:0307-6938
1365-2230
DOI:10.1111/j.1365-2230.1989.tb02601.x