The prevelance of food allergy in patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is difficult for patients and healthcare professionals to manage owing to its chronic and unpredictable nature. While the exact cause of CIU is unknown, it is suggested that food allergies may contribute to the development of symptoms. To determine the prevalence of food allergy in patients diagnosed with CIU. This systematic review is reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. We included all relevant articles published from inception to April 2023 in Scopus, Midline, and Web of Science. The initial search yielded 282 articles, of which only seven were included after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The systematic review included a total of 1551 patients with urticaria. Approximately 25% of patients with food allergies had CIU. The prevalence of a family history of atopy was 37.9% (range, 24.3–53.8%, P = 0.133). There was a significant risk of angioedema in patients with urticaria (P = 0.039). The risk of CIU among patients with food allergies was estimated to be one in every four patients with urticaria, with a similar risk among the adult and pediatric populations. Patients with food allergies and a history of atopy were at higher risk of CIU. Angioedema is a common concomitant manifestation associated with common urticaria. This knowledge is important to identify patients at higher risk of urticaria and implement the necessary management to minimize potential complications and maintain a controlled disease.