Prevalence of chronic urticaria refractory to antihistamines in andalucia, spain.

INTRODUCTION Chronic urticaria (CU) has a devastating effect on the quality of life of patients who suffer from it. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of severe CSU in adults in 8 health areas in Andalucia. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective observational study from January to December 2019 was conducted with the participation of 7 reference hospitals that were analysed, including including a total reference population of 3.159.001 individuals ≥18 years. The analysis of the characteristics of the population was carried out, and the estimated prevalence. RESULTS In total, 369 patients with a diagnosis of CSU refractory to antagonist of histamine were registered. We have found a prevalence of refractory patients of 0.0012% (95% CI 0.0010 % - 0.0013), ranging from 0.006% to 0.02%. CONCLUSIONS The present study has helped to describe the prevalence and characteristics of patients with severe urticarial. The prevalence is lower than previously reported. We have observed differences between hospital areas. There will be a new line of research at the national level to help improve the identification of patients with CSU. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.