Assessing the Effectiveness of Histaglobulin in Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: A Retrospective Analysis at a Tertiary Care Hospital

Introduction Chronic urticaria is a transient cutaneous disorder that waxes and wanes swiftly but, due to its periodic episodes, declines the quality of life of the affected individuals. It is of two types: chronic spontaneous or idiopathic and chronic-induced urticaria. Urticaria can have many different causes, but one of the most common causes of chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is autoimmune. Subcutaneous injection of histaglobulin has been used for a few decades to pacify various allergic reactions. We have been using histaglobulin injection for treatment and curtailment of chronic urticaria effectively for the last two years, in addition to oral antihistamines. Objective This study aims to analyze the effect of treatment with injection of histaglobulin in patients of CIU from the data recorded in the Dermatology Outpatient Department (OPD) of C.U. Shah Medical College and Hospital, Surendranagar, Gujarat (CUSMC). Methods This is an observational retrospective review of patients with CIU treated with weekly histaglobulin injections coming to the Dermatology Department CUSMC from April 2022 to April 2024. The recorded data of 45 patients were assessed with more than six weeks of urticaria. Histglobulin injection was given subcutaneously near the deltoid region weekly for eight weeks. The Urticaria Activity Score (UAS) was recorded at each visit. A complete blood count (CBC) and serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) were done to rule out infection and allergic diathesis. The patient's history was taken to rule out other causes of urticaria. An oral non-sedative antihistaminic and soothing lotion (calamine lotion) was given to alleviate symptoms. Results Out of the 45 patients who underwent treatment with eight weekly injections, 28 completed therapy, 10 patients visited five to six times, and seven patients dropped treatment after two to three visits due to variable reasons. The UAS gradually decreased to lower levels after sequential injections of histaglobulin in all the patients who continued and completed the treatment protocol. Conclusion Our study shows a reduction of UAS in patients taking weekly histaglobulin injections. Histoglobulin significantly benefited patients suffering from the distress associated with urticaria. They had reduced dependence on oral antihistamines, and the frequency of visits to the hospital diminished.