Understanding Dermatographism: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Dermatographism

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - Dermatographia - Factitial urticaria - Dermatographic urticaria

General

Dermatographia, or skin writing, is a skin condition in which minor scratches turn into a significant reaction, similar to hives, and then disappear within 30 minutes. The scratches worsen, become red and itchy, and cause deep wounds. It is more common in children or young adults. The cause for this condition is yet unknown but it seems to be an allergic response. In some, it is triggered by infections,certain medications, stress, allergy history, excessive rubbing from clothing or bedding and some styles of exercise. Risk factors include other skin conditions such as dermatitis or a tendency to dry skin.

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Learn from others who are experiencing Dermatographism.

Signs & symptoms

Dermatographia symptoms may include raised red lines, hive-like warts, itching, swelling and inflammation of the skin that occur within a few minutes from the skin being rubbed or scratched and typically disappear within 30 minutes. Symptoms may get worse in extreme temperatures.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dermatographia is done in a simple physical examination by scratching or rubbing the skin and looking for the typical response.

Treatment

Many times, this condition does not require treatment. If the reaction is severe or it bothers the patient, antihistamine medications are prescribed.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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