Chronic Urticaria Testing
View All TestsWhat Is Chronic Urticaria?
Chronic urticaria is defined as hives (wheals) occurring most days of the week for six weeks or longer. Unlike acute urticaria, chronic urticaria often has no clearly identifiable external trigger, and the majority of cases are classified as chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU).
In some individuals, chronic urticaria may have an autoimmune component, where the body produces antibodies against its own IgE receptors or IgE molecules. This can lead to persistent mast cell activation and ongoing histamine release.
While allergy testing may not always identify a single cause, it can help rule out IgE-mediated allergic triggers and provide baseline markers that may support your healthcare professional in determining next steps.
How Testing Works
Choose Your Test
Select from our range of allergy blood tests and book a convenient time at our South Kensington clinic. No GP referral needed.
Nurse Blood Draw
A qualified nurse takes a small blood sample at our clinic. The appointment is quick and straightforward.
Get Your Results
Results are sent directly to you, typically within a few working days. Share them with your GP or specialist to guide your next steps.
Recommended Tests for Chronic Urticaria
ALEX² Allergy Test (Venous)
Allergy Profile 1 (Food & Inhalants)
Eosinophil Cationic Protein
Histamine Releasing Urticaria Test
Total IgE
Urticaria Test (Histamine Releasing)
Why Choose a Diagnostic-Only Clinic?
Unlike clinics that provide both testing and treatment, our nurse-led service focuses solely on accurate diagnostic testing. Because we don't offer treatments or prescriptions, there is no commercial incentive to recommend unnecessary tests — just honest, impartial results you can trust.
Nurse-Led & Impartial
Our qualified nurses collect your sample — we don't prescribe, treat, or have any reason to upsell.
Results You Own
Your results are sent directly to you. Take them to your GP or a specialist to discuss what's best for your situation.
You Stay in Control
Understand your allergy profile, then decide with your healthcare professional what steps to take next.
Related Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
If my hives have lasted months, is allergy testing still useful?
Yes. While chronic spontaneous urticaria is often not driven by a single allergic trigger, testing can help rule out IgE-mediated causes and provide a baseline Total IgE level, which may be relevant if your healthcare professional considers specialist referral.
Can chronic urticaria be caused by food allergies?
Food allergies are rarely the sole cause of chronic urticaria, though they may occasionally contribute. IgE blood testing can help clarify whether food sensitisation is present.
Do I need a GP referral for allergy testing?
No. You can book directly with our clinic without a GP referral. Simply choose your test and select a convenient appointment time. If you're unsure which test is right for your symptoms, our team can help guide your selection.
Do I need to stop taking antihistamines before a blood test?
No. Unlike skin prick testing, IgE blood tests are not affected by antihistamines or other allergy medications. You can continue taking your regular medications before your appointment.
What should I do with my results?
As a diagnostic-only clinic, we provide results directly to you. For chronic urticaria, we recommend sharing your results with your GP or dermatologist, who may consider further investigation or specialist referral.
Explore Testing for Chronic Urticaria
Book a blood test at our South Kensington clinic
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