In simple words: Solar urticaria is a skin reaction to sunlight that causes itchy hives.The hives appear very quickly after sun exposure and go away when the sun exposure stops.

Solar urticaria, also known as urticaria solaris, is a rare type of chronic urticaria characterized by the immediate development of wheals (hives) and pruritus (itching) upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. The reaction typically occurs within minutes of exposure and resolves quickly once exposure ceases.The severity can range from mild itching to severe, widespread hives.Diagnosis involves detailed history taking, physical examination, and sometimes phototesting to confirm the UV sensitivity.

Example 1: A 35-year-old female presents with immediate onset of itchy hives on her face and arms after sun exposure during a walk on a sunny day. The hives subside within an hour after going indoors.This suggests solar urticaria., A 20-year-old male reports a history of recurring hives and itching whenever exposed to sunlight, often during outdoor sports activities. The condition severely limits his outdoor activities. This necessitates phototesting to confirm solar urticaria and development of a treatment plan., A 60-year-old female with a history of numerous sunburns reports a new onset of severe itching and hives after brief sun exposure. This warrants thorough evaluation to determine if it's solar urticaria and to rule out other photodermatoses.Additional tests like a skin biopsy may be considered.

Detailed history of sun exposure and the timing of symptom onset.Description of the rash (location, size, morphology, duration).Results of any phototesting performed.Treatment given and patient response.

** Solar urticaria is a rare condition, and accurate diagnosis can be challenging.Referral to a specialist with expertise in photodermatology is often recommended.