Exploring the relationship between menstrual cycle and urticaria: Insights from a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Gynecology
• Immunology

Background:

• Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) involves recurrent wheals over 6 weeks, with potential triggers including hormonal factors.
• Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis can cause cyclical urticaria, potentially overlapping with CSU in women experiencing menstrual cycle-related symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the temporal relationship between urticaria episodes and the menstrual cycle in women with CSU.
• To investigate the influence of hormonal fluctuations on urticaria exacerbations.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 75 women (18-45 years) with suspected menstrual cycle-linked CSU in Sudan.
• Data collection via structured questionnaires on demographics, menstrual history, and urticaria patterns.

Main Results:

• 46.7% of participants experienced urticaria during menstruation (first 3 days); 33.3% reported premenstrual exacerbations.
• Premenstrual urticaria was linked to the 21-30 age group (P=0.030). A history of allergies was common, suggesting a predisposition.
• Most cases presented as classic wheals, with rare angioedema (3.7%).

Conclusions:

• Significant association found between the menstrual cycle and urticaria exacerbations, implicating hormonal fluctuations.
• Findings support further research into hormonally influenced urticaria mechanisms.
• Suggests potential for targeted therapies like hormonal modulation or individualized treatment plans.