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Helicobacter pylori as a possible bacterial focus of chronic urticaria
S Wustlich1, R Brehler, T A Luger
1Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Germany.
Background:
Chronic urticaria is one of the most frequent skin diseases. Its cause, however, remains unsolved in a large number of cases. Recent investigations pointed to a potential role of Helicobacter pylori infection of the upper gastrointestinal tract as a possible causative agent in chronic urticaria.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a 14-day eradication therapy on chronic urticaria.
Methods:
Thirty patients with chronic urticaria and confirmed H. pylori infection were treated with amoxicillin and omeprazole. Follow-up was conducted over a period of 6 months concerning eradication of H. pylori and remission of urticaria.
Results:
Only 8 out of 30 patients (26.7%) showed clinical improvement or disappearance of their urticarial symptoms.
Conclusion:
Though our results do not support the preliminary data of previous studies, the role of H. pylori as a possible bacterial focus of chronic urticaria has to be further investigated.