Preface

Urticaria is one of the most common dermatological cutaneous reactions. Although it can be easily recognized by patients and physicians, determining its causes, clinical manifestations, and treatment remains challenging.

This book is a practical guide to all types and aspects of urticaria important to physicians. It includes current guidelines and recent literature. Followed by the Introductory chapter, in Chapter 2, Dr. Evmorfia Ladoyanni presents current knowledge about pathophysiology with a focus on the clinically relevant aspects of diagnosis and treatment of the disease. In Chapter 3, Dr. Joaquin Quiralte comprehensively reviews a common type of urticaria caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a condition that is challenging to diagnose as well as manage. In Chapters 4 and 5, Prof. Young-Min Ye and Dr. Patrizia Pepe place special emphasis on the management and therapy of urticaria, especially the role of anti-IgE-antibodies. Finally, in Chapter 6, Prof. Zahava Vadasz discusses new biological treatment options for urticaria as well as potential future treatments.

This practical guide is a useful resource for all physicians specializing in dermatology, allergy, internal medicine, pediatrics, and general medicine and offers invaluable assistance in the daily practical management of urticaria patients.

> **Dr. Eleni Papakonstantinou** Private Dermatological Practice - Hautärzte am Markt, Dortmund, Germany
