Disease Guide: Diagnosis, Symptoms & Clinical Treatment Protocols

For patients and caregivers, understanding clinical progression, diagnostic imaging results, and pharmacological treatment options is vital for managing acute and chronic health conditions.

Skin Conditions

What Causes Breaking Out in Hives?

Published Aug,14 2017 | By Ciele Edwards

Hives occur when specialized immune system cells in the skin, called mast cells, activate. Activated mast cells release inflammatory chemicals, including histamine and others. This causes dilation of nearby blood vessels and leakage of fluid into the superficial skin layer, resulting in hives.