Dermatographism on the arm
Dermatographism is a condition where lightly scratching the skin raises wheals or welts. Histamine is released at the site, causing the small blood vessels (capillaries) to dilate, producing redness and localized swelling.
Review Date:
10/23/2006
Reviewd By:
Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.