Dermographism

/ˌdɜːrməˈɡræfɪzəm/ noun

Definition

Another term for dermographia; a skin condition causing visible marks or welts when the skin is written on or rubbed.

Etymology

From 'derma' (skin) + 'graphism' (the practice of writing). Similar to dermographia but uses the suffix '-ism' to denote the condition as a disease state.

Kelly Says

Dermographism is sometimes called 'skin writing' and happens because your mast cells (immune cells in skin) release too much histamine when triggered, creating those dramatic red welts!

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