Clinical features of patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria associated with autoimmune thyroiditis

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Immunology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and autoimmune thyroiditis (AT) can co-occur in children.
• Limited research exists on the combined prevalence and management of CSU and AT in pediatric populations.
• Existing literature suggests a higher incidence of antithyroid antibodies in children with CSU.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical characteristics of children diagnosed with both CSU and AT.
• To compare findings in pediatric cases with existing literature.
• To emphasize the need for further research into this specific pediatric comorbidity.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive analysis was conducted on a cohort of 15 pediatric patients with both CSU and AT.
• Data from case reports and case series were compiled and analyzed.
• Patient data included thyroid status, treatment interventions, and presence of other autoimmune conditions.

Main Results:

• Of the 15 patients, 7 (46.7%) presented with hypothyroidism, while the remainder were euthyroid.
• Hypothyroidism onset varied, preceding, coinciding with, or following CSU diagnosis.
• One hypothyroid and one euthyroid patient on l-thyroxine experienced urticaria remission; three patients received omalizumab.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric patients with CSU warrant regular screening for antithyroid antibodies.
• Close medical supervision is crucial for children with co-existing CSU and AT to monitor for additional autoimmune diseases.
• While l-thyroxine may benefit some hypothyroid patients with CSU, and omalizumab shows potential, further controlled studies are needed.