What does urticaria refer to in dermatological terms?

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin that can vary in size and can appear suddenly. This condition is caused by the release of histamine and other chemicals from mast cells in response to various triggers, such as allergens, stress, or certain medications. The result is localized inflammation, leading to the appearance of these raised lesions.

Understanding urticaria is essential for anyone in the field of esthetics, as they may encounter clients with this condition and need to be aware of potential irritants, treatment options, and how to handle skin that is experiencing these types of reactions. The other choices refer to different dermatological conditions that do not accurately describe urticaria. For instance, bacterial skin infections involve different symptoms and causes, while dry, scaly skin pertains to conditions like eczema or psoriasis, and non-infectious lesions are more general and encompass a broader range of skin issues.