Iron treatment shows promise in hivesOral iron therapy and chronic idiopathic urticaria: sideropenic urticaria?
We explored the connection between low iron levels and chronic idiopathic urticaria (CU), a condition that often remains unresolved despite treatment attempts. During our observation of 122 patients with persistent urticaria resistant to standard treatments, we found that many experienced moderate iron deficiency.
All patients continued their antihistamine medications but also started oral iron therapy for 30 to 45 days. Remarkably, by the end of two months, all participants achieved normal serum iron levels. A substantial portion of the group, 64 individuals, reported complete clearance of their hives, while 17 mentioned an improvement exceeding 80%.
Importantly, we noted that no one experienced adverse reactions from the iron treatment, and follow-up visits affirmed that these positive results remained stable for six months. Given the low cost and potential for significant benefits, we propose that measuring iron levels could be a useful addition to the work-up for chronic urticaria, especially in patients who show no other significant clinical issues.
Read More
Ferric carboxymaltose aids iron allergyThe experiences of ferric carboxymaltose desensitization and provocation.
We investigated the effects of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) on patients with hypersensitivity to iron, especially focusing on hives as a common allergic reaction. The study consisted of two key components: a four-step drug provocation test (DPT) for low-risk patients and an eleven-step rapid drug desensitization (RDD) protocol for those at higher risk.
FCM treatment showed promising results, with an impressive 95% success rate in RDD among 21 patients. Breakthrough reactions were most commonly hives, with 33% of participants displaying this reaction during desensitization. Among the 10 patients who had DPT, there were also successful completions, although two did experience hives after the procedure.
Overall, our findings indicate that both RDD and DPT can effectively allow patients with iron hypersensitivity to receive FCM treatments, even in the context of hives. While some patients did experience hives, the majority tolerated the treatment well, affirming that FCM can be safely used in these cases.
Read More