Related Experiment Videos
Etiologic aspects of chronic urticaria
1Department of Dermatology, Medical Microbiology, and Pathology, University of Turku, Finland.
International Journal of Dermatology
|July 29, 1998
Summary
Chronic urticaria patients often show aberrant immune responses. Helicobacter pylori infection and gastrointestinal inflammation may play a significant role in the development of chronic urticaria.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Urticaria is a prevalent dermatological condition with often elusive causes.
- Dermatologists face challenges in diagnosing and treating chronic urticaria due to its complex etiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential underlying causes and aberrant immunologic activation in patients with chronic urticaria.
- To explore the association of Helicobacter pylori infection, autoimmune reactivity, and allergies with chronic urticaria.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 107 chronic urticaria patients underwent comprehensive investigations.
- Evaluated Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies, autoimmune markers, infections, allergies, and hyperreactivities.
- Included routine laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy for gastritis assessment, and allergy testing.
Main Results:
- Pathologic findings were identified in 92% of patients.
- H. pylori IgG antibodies were present in 40% of patients, with active gastritis in 30/32 tested.
- Elevated IgE levels were observed in 64% of H. pylori-positive patients versus 39% of H. pylori-negative patients.
- Autoimmune reactivity was detected in 9 patients, and infections in 16 patients.
Conclusions:
- Aberrant immunologic activation is frequently observed in chronic urticaria.
- Gastrointestinal inflammation, particularly H. pylori infection, is implicated as a potential key factor in the etiology of chronic urticaria.