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Chronic urticaria due to Blastocystis hominis
1Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. ritu1gupta@hotmail.com
The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|April 28, 2006
Summary
Chronic urticaria in a young woman resolved after treatment for Blastocystis hominis, a gut parasite. This case highlights the potential link between intestinal infections and persistent hives, suggesting stool analysis for parasites in unexplained chronic urticaria.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Urticaria is a common skin condition often with unknown triggers.
- Chronic urticaria can significantly impact quality of life.
- Gastrointestinal infections are sometimes implicated in chronic urticaria.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old woman presented with a 9-week history of daily urticaria.
- The urticaria began after contact with topical bufexamac.
- She had a history of mild chronic diarrhea and was found to have Blastocystis hominis.
Findings:
- Treatment of Blastocystis hominis infection led to the complete resolution of urticaria.
- This suggests a causal link between the gastrointestinal parasite and the skin condition.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may act as cofactors in precipitating urticarial reactions.
Implications:
- Stool microscopy and culture should be considered in the diagnostic workup of chronic urticaria of unknown etiology.
- Intestinal parasites may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of chronic urticaria.
- Further research is warranted to explore the relationship between parasitic infections and urticaria.
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