Psychosocial factors and chronic spontaneous urticaria: a systematic review

Abstract

Abstract Background Psychosocial factors have been informally associated with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU); however, the relationship between psychosocial factors and CSU remains relatively unexplored in the scientific literature. Objective This review aims to provide an evaluation of peer reviewed studies exploring psychosocial factors and CSU. Methods A systematic search was performed over four databases identifying studies exploring psychosocial factors in relation to CSU published between the years 1995 and 2022. Results Eighteen studies were included for narrative analysis, and 33 psychosocial factors were identified. These were split into two subgroups: psychosocial factors that were associated with CSU symptoms aggravation/onset (n = 20), and psychosocial factors expected to be impacted by CSU symptoms (n = 13). Conclusion This review has highlighted a need for more research and interventions to support individuals with psychosocial factors involved in CSU.

Keywords

• Stress
• Urticaria
• Chronic spontaneous urticaria
• Psychosomatic skin conditions
• Psychosocial interaction