Diagnosis of Cold Urticaria, Centre of Evidence of Dermatology

Guidelines cold urticaria Updated on january 2024

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Diagnosis of Cold Urticaria

Back to decision-making tree Print last updated on 26/02/2024

Among the disillusioning circumstances usually found: swimming, exposure to cold air, sudden thermal differential, working in a cold atmosphere, ingestion of cold food, etc.

Ice cube test

Place an ice cube (in a plastic bag) on the forearm for 5 minutes. Take the reading 10 minutes after removing the ice cube. In case of negativity, possibility of increasing the exposure time to 10 or even 20 minutes.

If erythematous papule (positive test): then carry out a biological assessment: CBC, CRP.

In the event of clinical signs suggesting cytopathy (purpura, arthralgia, peripheral neuropathy, etc.), consider testing for cryoglobulins and cold agglutinins.

Inform the patient

Hand over the patient emergency card
Hand over the advice sheet on Cold Urticaria

Indication for basic treatment?

To be assessed according to severity and impact on quality of life (UCT, DLQI).

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