Molecule

C5a

Anaphylatoxin and neutrophil chemoattractant

Expression change
Generated during activation
Evidence level
strong

Role in pathogenesis

C5a is a potent anaphylatoxin generated during complement cascade activation. It recruits neutrophils to vessel walls, driving the leukocytoclastic vasculitis that is the histologic hallmark of HUVS. Also activates mast cells contributing to urticarial manifestations.