Characterization of chronic urticaria in patients at the second level of health care

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic urticaria is defined as a skin reaction that causes itchy
hives and lasts more than six weeks. It mainly affects adult patients and is twice
as common among women. In Cuba it is a reason for consultation where patients
require prolonged consumption of medications and health care.
Methods: Descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study was realized. Of 178
patients seen in consultation, a sample of 100 cases was selected through
simple random probabilistic sampling.
Results: The average age was 43.2 years, with a predominance of the age group
40-49 years and the female sex, with 35% and 74% respectively. Regarding sex,
no significant differences were found (p = 0.069). The majority of cases are of
mixed skin. Personal and family history of allergic rhinitis predominated. No
history of allergic conjunctivitis was found in any case. Regarding the intensity of
the patients' chronic urticaria, 57% had marked intensity, 35% had moderate
intensity, and 8% had intense intensity.
Conclusions: The characteristics of chronic urticaria in patients studied in the
allergy department are common in Cuba and other countries. Female patients,
especially in their forties, are the most frequently seen for this etiology.