Features of diagnostic search and experience in the treatment of chronic urticaria in obese patients with pulmonary pathology

Background. In recent decades, along with the growth of allergic diseases, there has been a progressive increase in the number of people with overweight of varying severity, as evidenced by numerous epidemiological studies. Therefore, both allergies and obesity are among the global problems of modern healthcare due to their high prevalence and medical and social significance. The purpose of the study was analysis of the etiological factors of chronic urticaria (CU) in obese patients with pulmonary pathology, optimization of diagnosis and treatment of CU for further planning of preventive measures. Materials and methods. We examined 250 patients who applied for medical care to the regional clinical hospital in Chernivtsi and had CU associated with pulmonary pathology and obesity. Based on the analysis of the obtained data, a group of 140 patients was formed for further clinical and anamnestic examination: analysis of the anamnesis, determination of the severity of urticaria, assessment of quality of life, control of urticaria symptoms, general clinical laboratory studies, tests for verification of urticaria. Allergy testing was carried out when the patient’s anamnestic data indicated its expediency. The survey was carried out for one month and included a diagnostic period and 3 consultations every 7–10 days. Results. Among the causes of CU in patients with pulmonary disease, drug intolerance and parasitic infection dominate. Polyetiology is observed in 60 % of cases. Differences in CU in obese patients are the long-term persistence of urticaria or other elements of the rash, the lack of effectiveness of therapy with the second- and third-generation antihistamines and glucocorticosteroids. Conclusions. The results obtained indicate a positive effect of the quinuclidine derivative quifenadine for the treatment of CU in patients with pulmonary pathology and obesity. Complete and significant effects were obtained in 91.43 % of patients. The worst results (8.57 %) were demonstrated by patients with the etiological significance of chemical factors (including occupational ones), which is associated with more problematic compliance with the elimination regimen in this category of patients.