Chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives) – an itch that can’t be scratched.
Well, from a literal perspective, you can scratch. But the chronic nature of chronic spontaneous urticaria means that your hives will last for more than six weeks at a time and continue recurring over the next months or years.
Clinical-stage biotechnology company Evommune, Inc. is working to provide relief by developing EVO756. EVO756 is a highly selecive small molecule MRGPRX2 agonist. As Evommune explains:
Mas-related G-protein coupled receptor X2 (MRGPRX2) is most abundantly found on mast cells and peripheral sensory neurons [and] mast cells are the primary effector cells that drive [many] inflammatory diseases.
EVO756 blocks MRGPRX2. This prevents mast cell degranulation and could potentially stop itching and inflammation quickly in conditions like chronic spontaneous urticaria or atopic dermatitis.
In mid-January 2024, Evoimmun shared that it was initiating a Phase 1 clinical study to evaluate EVO756 as a therapy. Both people with chronic spontaneous urticaria, and healthy individuals, will enroll. Within this study, researchers will explore whether EVO756 is safe and well-tolerated. Additionally, researchers hope to understand its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles.
What You Should Know: Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria
Also known as: Chronic urticaria; hives
If you’ve ever had hives, then you understand how challenging they can be to deal with. People with chronic spontaneous urticaria have long-lasting hives that appear and fade time and time again. These hives are often severely itchy, becoming red welts across the skin that can appear anywhere on the body. Hives occur when your cells release histamines and other chemicals. Doctors don’t know exactly why this happens, but they have noticed certain triggers, such as infections, alcohol use, pain medications, stress, changing temperatures, parasites or insects, or even sun exposure.
In addition to intense itchiness, people with this condition may experience painful swelling, called angioedema, around the cheeks, eyes, or lips. The symptoms can be deeply uncomfortable and, for some, interrupt with daily quality-of-life. Your doctor may recommend preventative measures, such as:
- Wearing loose, light clothing
- Avoiding anything that triggers your hives
- Putting on sunscreen
- Not scratching your skin
- Using gentle, mild soaps
- Soothing existing welts with anti-itch creams, a cool bath, or a fan
Antihistamines may also bring relief. If you attempt these methods and treatments but they aren’t working, you can speak with your doctor about other possible therapies such as monoclonal antibodies or more potent anti-inflammatory treatments. Not every treatment is right for every person. Please talk with your doctor about the best line of action for you.
