What is the primary characteristic used to describe hives, medically known as urticaria?
Answer
Raised, pale red welts that can blanch when pressed
Urticaria, commonly referred to as hives, is a specific presentation of a sudden, widespread rash resulting from the immune system overreacting, often mediated by the release of histamine. These reactions typically appear as raised welts on the skin. A defining feature is that these welts are pale red and possess the ability to blanch, meaning they turn white momentarily when physical pressure is applied to them, and they are often associated with intense itching.
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