Unraveling the Diagnosis of Hypocomplementemic Urticarial Vasculitis Syndrome

Abstract

Hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis syndrome (HUVS) is a rare condition characterized by immune complex-mediated urticarial lesions with histological features of leukocytoclastic vasculitis, low serum complement levels, and is frequently associated with systemic manifestations. Its pathophysiology is poorly understood. We present a patient who presented with abdominal pain and skin rash. Extensive work-up was performed including skin biopsy, and the presence of angioedema, oral ulcers, low complement level, leukocytic vasculitis, and persistent eosinophilia ultimately led to the diagnosis of HUVS. This case highlights the importance of recognizing and differentiating HUVS from other cutaneous diseases, which in turn helps to optimally manage these patients.

Keywords: eosinophilia; hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis; inflammatory arthritis; leukocytoclastic vasculitis (lcv); literature review of disease; rare skin disease.