[Recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of urticaria in children]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dermatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Urticaria is a prevalent skin disorder, affecting 25% of the population.
• Acute urticaria lasts less than 6 weeks, while chronic urticaria (CU) persists longer.
• CU affects 0.1% of the population, with a higher prevalence in women (60%).

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize chronic urticaria (CU) in children due to diagnostic challenges.
• To highlight the increasing prevalence of CU in pediatric populations.
• To underscore the severe quality of life impairment caused by CU in children.

Main Methods:

• Review of urticaria classification, distinguishing acute from chronic forms.
• Discussion of CU subclassification into chronic inducible and spontaneous urticaria.
• Examination of the pathophysiology, focusing on mast cell degranulation.

Main Results:

• Second-generation H1 antihistamines are the primary treatment for both acute and chronic urticaria.
• Alternative therapies are considered for patients unresponsive to initial treatment.
• CU presents significant diagnostic difficulties and negatively impacts children's quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Chronic urticaria requires focused attention due to its prevalence and impact on pediatric quality of life.
• Effective management strategies beyond first-line antihistamines are crucial for refractory CU cases.
• Further research into CU pathophysiology and treatment is warranted for improved pediatric outcomes.