What is the cause?

Schnitzler syndrome

What is the cause of Schnitzler syndrome?

The cause of Schnitzler syndrome is unknown.

There has been some research, pointing to faults in the regulation of specific parts of the immune system. But these results have not always been found in all patients, and are still very preliminary at this stage.

Who gets this disease?

Anyone could get this syndrome. Most patients are in their 50’s when the symptoms start—only 4 out of 90 patients had their first symptoms before the age of 35. It occurs in many parts of the world, probably everywhere. Both men and women can get it.

This is not an inherited disease, so family members of patients do not have more chance of getting it than others. It is also not contagious.

Last update/check: June 30, 2007

Who gets this disease?

Information for patients