Urticaria and Acne: When to See an Allergist

Q: Urticaria and Acne: When to See an Allergist

Hello： Your age is typical for the occurrence of acne. <br>If you are taking medication for urticaria, it is possible that the excessive use of topical corticosteroids or high oral doses may lead to an overgrowth of "Malassezia," a type of fungus, resulting in widespread follicul

Urticaria and Allergies

Hello, doctor.
I have a history of urticaria, and I haven't had acne since I was about fourteen.
However, starting from July and August of this year, I've been experiencing persistent acne on my face.
I've visited many hospitals, but there hasn't been much improvement.
Whenever I eat the wrong foods, it triggers my urticaria, and sometimes it even develops into cystic acne.
I found some information online indicating that some people experience acne due to food allergies, but I'm not sure if that's the case for me.
I would like to undergo allergy testing at the hospital.
Which department should I consult for this?

Roxy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/11/27

Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology

Hello: Your age is typical for the occurrence of acne.
If you are taking medication for urticaria, it is possible that the excessive use of topical corticosteroids or high oral doses may lead to an overgrowth of "Malassezia," a type of fungus, resulting in widespread folliculitis on the face, chest, or back.
In this case, it is necessary to adjust the topical or oral medications and provide antifungal treatment.
Regarding whether certain foods may cause excessive acne or allergic folliculitis due to food allergies, a skin biopsy is required for diagnosis.
Most hospitals can perform allergy testing, but certain criteria must be met: 1.
There should be a clear history of allergies (such as allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, asthma, or atopic dermatitis).
2.
It is preferable to have recent skin allergy symptoms for easier testing.
3.
According to health insurance regulations, allergy testing cannot be conducted directly; the level of IgE (Immunoglobulin E) must first be tested, and if elevated, further allergy testing can be pursued.
4.
The approach will depend on the primary allergy symptoms; for example, if you have allergic rhinitis, you can consult an otolaryngologist, and for eye allergies, an ophthalmologist, and so on...

Reply Date: 2008/11/27

More Info

When dealing with skin conditions such as urticaria (hives) and acne, it's essential to understand the underlying causes and when to seek specialized medical advice. Urticaria is often triggered by allergens, medications, or even stress, while acne is primarily related to hormonal changes, bacteria, and clogged pores. In your case, the overlap of these two conditions—especially the appearance of acne after experiencing hives—raises valid concerns about potential allergic reactions or sensitivities.

Given your history of urticaria since the age of fourteen and the recent onset of acne, it is prudent to consider the possibility that food allergies or sensitivities could be contributing to your skin issues. Some individuals experience skin reactions, including acne, as a result of consuming certain foods. This could be due to direct allergic reactions or inflammatory responses triggered by specific dietary components.

To address your concerns effectively, I recommend consulting with an allergist. An allergist specializes in diagnosing and treating allergies, including food allergies, which may be relevant in your situation. They can perform specific tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, to identify any allergens that may be contributing to your urticaria and possibly your acne. This step is crucial, especially since you mentioned that consuming certain foods can trigger your hives.

In addition to seeing an allergist, it may also be beneficial to consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist specializes in skin conditions and can provide targeted treatments for acne, which may include topical medications, oral antibiotics, or hormonal treatments, depending on the severity and underlying causes of your acne. They can also help differentiate between acne caused by hormonal factors and that which may be related to allergic reactions.

When you visit the allergist, be prepared to discuss your medical history in detail, including your urticaria episodes, any known triggers, and the timeline of your acne development. Keeping a food diary may also be helpful to track any correlations between your diet and the onset of hives or acne flare-ups.

In summary, the most appropriate course of action for your situation is to see an allergist for potential allergy testing and to consult a dermatologist for acne management. Both specialists can work together to provide a comprehensive approach to your skin issues, ensuring that both urticaria and acne are addressed effectively. Remember, managing skin conditions often requires a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and appropriate medical treatments.

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