Peerview Immunology & Transplantation Cme/cne/cpe Audio Podcast

Go online to PeerView.com/HWY860 to view the activity, download slides and practice aids, and complete the post-test to earn credit. Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is defined by the presence of recurrent urticaria, angioedema, or both, for a period of 6 weeks or longer. There are several theories regarding the pathogenesis of CSU, none of which have been conclusively established. CSU is a self-limited disorder in most patients, with an average duration of disease of 2 to 5 years; although active CSU significantly impairs quality of life. Second-generation H1 antihistamines (sgAHs) in standard dose are effective in less than 50% of CSU patients. Increasing the dose of sgAHs improves treatment responses; however, every third to fourth patient will still remain symptomatic. Omalizumab, an anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, may also be used for effective treatment, as well as cyclosporine. The current guideline-recommended treatment algorithm, though useful, is not perfect. The treatment of patients with CSU shou