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Urticaria in children. Retrospective evaluation and follow-up
Insights
This study on childhood urticaria found physical factors and infections as common causes. Most children experienced symptom improvement or resolution within a year, indicating a favorable prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
- Dermatology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Urticaria is a common skin condition in children, with varied etiologies and prognoses.
- Understanding the specific triggers and long-term outcomes in pediatric populations is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the etiologic factors of acute, recurrent, and chronic urticaria in hospitalized children.
- To assess the long-term prognosis and symptom resolution rates in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 163 children (6 months-16 years) hospitalized for urticaria between 1976-1980.
- Follow-up study conducted on 81% of the cohort for at least one year.
- Identification of potential etiologic agents and classification of urticaria types.
Main Results:
- Etiologic agents were identified in 55% of cases.
- Physical factors were the most frequent causes, particularly in chronic urticaria.
- Infections were predominant in acute urticaria.
- After follow-up, 53% were symptom-free, 36% had reduced symptom frequency, and 11% remained unresolved.
Conclusions:
- Etiologic factors in childhood urticaria resemble those in adults.
- Prognosis for childhood urticaria is generally favorable, especially when the cause is identified.
- Early etiological diagnosis can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
Abstract:
A retrospective study supplemented with follow-up was carried out in 163 children, aged 6 months to 16 years, who were hospitalized because of acute, recurrent or chronic urticaria in 1976-1980. Etiologic agents were identified in 55% of cases. Physical factors were the commonest causes, especially in cases of chronic urticaria, while infections predominated in acute urticaria. 81% of the children participated in the follow-up study. Follow-up for a year or more revealed that 53% of the children had become symptom-free, 36% still had symptoms but less frequently and in 11% urticaria was unresolved. The results indicate that the etiologic factors in childhood urticaria are similar to those found in adults and that prognosis is favorable, particularly when the etiology is established.