Dermatographism - close-up

Dermatographism is a condition where lightly scratching the skin raises wheals or welts. Histamine is released, which causes the small blood vessels (capillaries) to dilate, producing redness and localized swelling.



Review Date:10/23/2006
Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.