Investigation of etiological factors of childhood urticaria

Objective: Urticaria is a frequent rash disorder in pediatric emergency departments and general pediatric outpatient clinics. The purpose of this study was to determine etiologic factors in patients who applied with urticaria findings in our region Materials and Methods: The demographic characteristics, backgrounds and family histories of 72 patients who had urticaria findings between the dates of 2016-2017 were questioned in Gaziantep University Medical Faculty Pediatric Emergency Department and General Pediatric Clinic. Clinical findings of the patients, laboratory data, and the treatments they received before applying to our hospital were evaluated. Hemogram, AST, ALT, urea, creatinine, CRP, sedimentation, throat culture, urine culture and stool parasite examination, serum allergen specific IgE and skin prik test were performed on the patient's Findings: 23 (31.9%) of the total 72 patients were female and 49 (69.1%) were male. 34.4% of the patients applied with first urticaria and 65.6% recurred urticaria. Urticaria was found in the patients with moderate degree with 70.8%. At a mild degree, urticaria was 22.2%, while severe urticaria was 6.9%. The most common causes of urticaria after history and physical examination were determined as 38.8% (n = 28) and 25% (n = 18), respectively. The most common causes of urticaria were IgE-mediated food allergy (n = 20), infections 25% (n = 18) and dermographism 4.1% (n = 3). Conclusion: In our study, food and nutrient additives, infections and physical causes were identified as the most common causes of urticaria in childhood. No etiologic factor causing urticaria was found in 43% of the patients. Key words: urticaria, food allergy, infection, specific IgE