Contact urticaria and contact urticaria syndrome

Abstract

Contact urticaria, contact urticaria syndrome (CUS), protein contact dermatitis (PCD), and oral allergy syndrome (OAS) are diseases which are precipitated by immediate contact skin and mucous membrane reactions. They may be the result of a specific immune reaction after sensitization to a high or low molecular weight compound (ICoU), or they are mediated by a nonimmunological reaction which needs no prior sensitization (NICoU). Compounds in numerous environmental materials which can come in contact with the skin are able to induce contact urticaria such as animal dander, plants, foods and flavorings, enzymes, cosmetics including fragrances and preservatives, medications, disinfectants, and metals.