Urticaria crónica en pediatría : caracterización clínica, epidemiológica y terapéutica en el Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert (2018 – 2024).

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic urticaria in the pediatric population represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to its prolonged course, multifactorial etiology, and impact on quality of life. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics, complementary tests requested, and treatments applied in pediatric patients with chronic urticaria treated between 2018 and 2024. Materials and Methods: An observational, descriptive, and retrospective study was conducted through the review of 1,150 medical records with an-ICD-10 diagnosis of L50.9. After removing duplicate records and applying exclusion criteria, 42 patients who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. Results: The median age was 10.2 years, with two frequency peaks at 4 and 14 years; a female predominance was observed (59%). Angioedema was present in 33% of cases. Among clinical forms, spontaneous urticaria predominated (80%), and allergic rhinitis was associated in 36% of patients. Within the laboratory profile, intestinal parasitosis (12/35 patients) was observed as a possible associated comorbidity. First-line treatment was based on second-generation H1 antihistamines (100%). Conclusion: Chronic urticaria in the pediatric population mainly presents as chronic spontaneous urticaria, with a female predominance and a bimodal age distribution. The association with allergic comorbidities and elevated IgE levels highlights the importance of a comprehensive evaluation in these patients. Second-generation antihistamines remain the first-line treatment, in accordance with international guidelines.