Urticaria multiforme in Asian children

Aim

Urticaria multiforme is an uncommon presentation of acute urticaria. It most commonly affects children and most often occurs secondary to an underlying viral infection. We performed a retrospective review of a cohort of Asian children with urticaria multiforme and reviewed the literature on the condition.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical notes of children and adolescents less than 16 years of age, diagnosed with urticaria multiforme at our tertiary paediatric hospital between January 2017 and December 2022. Data collected and analysed included age, gender, initial diagnosis, antecedent symptoms, recent immunisations and medications, results of diagnostic tests, treatment and outcome.

Results

A total of 20 children were identified, with median age of diagnosis of 1.9 years, with most patients (79%) 7 years of age or younger. Viral infections were the commonest triggers. The most common referring diagnoses were erythema multiforme and Stevens–Johnson syndrome. Common antecedent or concomitant symptoms were fever and upper respiratory symptoms. Blood investigations were generally unremarkable except for mildly increased white cell counts and other markers of infection. Outcomes were good in all patients, with resolution of symptoms within 6 weeks without sequelae.

Conclusion

Urticaria multiforme is an uncommon presentation of acute urticaria. Despite its striking appearance, it is generally a benign, self-limiting condition. Extensive investigations are usually not required and management is largely supportive.