Comorbidities in patients with chronic urticaria: A cross sectional study from an Urticaria Center of Reference and Excellence

Abstract

Objectives: Chronic urticaria (CU) is a common mast cell driven disease, characterized by the development of wheals, angioedema, or both. The common comorbidities among patients of CU presenting to an Urticaria Center of Reference and Excellence (GA2LEN UCARE) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil are presented. Material and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional and single-center study with adolescents and adults from the outpatient clinic of a GA2LEN UCARE Center at the Immunology Service. Patients were enrolled after informed consent was obtained. Results: We enrolled 180 patients with CU. One hundred and fifty-five were female (86.1%) and 25 male (13.9%). Mean age was 46.2 ± 16.1 years (ranging from 13 to 81 years). Mean disease duration was 10.3 years (ranging from 0.17 to 62 years). The most frequent comorbidities associated with CU were hypertension in 63 patients (35%), atopy 58 (32.2%), thyroid disease 34 (18.8%), gastrointestinal disease 25 (13.8%), diabetes 22 (12.2%), psychiatric disorders 22 (12.2%), rheumatic diseases 17 (9.4%), and hepatitis C (2. 2%). Conclusion: CU has been related to several comorbidities. Our data matches previous reported findings regarding sex, age, and comorbidities such as autoimmunity, atopy, and hypertension. It is necessary to improve the diagnosis of comorbidities. With the early diagnosis of comorbidities, we will be able to carry out timely therapeutic interventions to improve the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure safety in drug interactions.