Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU)

Overview

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) means itchy hives, sometimes with deeper swelling, that appear on most days for six weeks or longer without a clear outside trigger. It is thought to involve immune activation of mast cells in the skin, and in some people it has an autoimmune component. CSU can disrupt sleep, work and mood.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Raised, itchy welts that fade within a day but keep coming back
• New hives appearing in different places
• Swelling of the lips, eyelids, hands or feet
• Symptoms that flare with heat, pressure or stress

When to Contact a Provider

See a provider if hives last longer than six weeks or affect your sleep or daily life. Throat swelling or trouble breathing is an emergency: call 911.

How Treatment May Help

Daily non-drowsy antihistamines, sometimes at higher doses under a provider's direction, are usually the first treatment. When hives continue despite antihistamines, an allergist may prescribe Xolair, which may help reduce itching and hives.

Therapies That May Be Available at Infuse Care

• Xolair (omalizumab): injection under the skin, usually every four weeks, for people 12 and older whose hives continue despite antihistamines

Safety and Monitoring

Xolair carries a warning for anaphylaxis, a serious allergic reaction, so you are observed after injections and your provider may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector. Other possible side effects include injection-site reactions, headache and joint pain.

Your prescribing provider decides which treatment is right for you. Infuse Care administers prescribed therapies after a referral, a clinical review and any required insurance authorization, and we keep your provider's office updated on your care.