Helicobacter pylori Infection as a Possible Cause of Urticaria: A Study at Yangon Outpatient Clinic, Myanmar

Chronic urticaria is defined as the presence of recurrent wheels, angioedema, or both, persisting for more than six months. In most cases, no identifiable cause is found. For decades, the pathogenesis of chronic spontaneous urticaria has remained unclear, however, Helicobacter pylori infection has been proposed as a potential contributing factor. Aim: The aim and objective of the study is to examine the association between Helicobacter pylori infection and chronic urticaria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was carried out in the outpatient department of Myanmar between August 2020 and July 2021. Study participants included 46 patients with chronic urticaria and 46 healthy matched control. Helicobacter pylori infection was detected using a rapid-one step serological test. Results: Of the enrolled participants, 43.48 % tested positive for Helicobacter pylori. There was no statistically significant difference in age distribution between the two groups (p=0.0767). The odds of Helicobacter pylori seropositivity were 3.65 times higher in the chronic urticaria group compared to controls. (95% CI: 1.399-9.540, p=0.007). Conclusion: The study findings support a positive association between Helicobacter pylori seropositivity and chronic urticaria, highlighting the need for further research to evaluate the impact of eradication therapy on symptom improvement.