A STUDY ON RISK FACTORS OF TOXOCARA SEROPOSITIVITY PREVALENCE AND THE RESULTS OF TOXOCARIASIS TREATMENT WITH ORAL ALBENDAZOL IN CHRONIC URTICARIA AT CAN THO DERMATO-VENEREOLOGY HOSPITAL IN 2021

Abstract

Background: Chronic urticaria (CU) is defined by recurrent episodes lasting for six weeks or more and generally characterized by the sudden appearance of hives (wheal), angioedema or both. Most are idiopathic, however, one of the causes of chronic urticaria can be parasitic infection, especially Toxocariasis. Albendazol is used as a treatment for Toxocariasis. Therefore, the detection of causes, risk factors and specific treatment of the causes helps to solve chronic urticaria. Objectives: (1) To determine of Toxocara seropositivity in patients with chronic urticaria and identify the risk factors for toxocariasis; (2) To evaluate the results of oral albendazol in the treatment of toxocariasis in chronic urticatia. Materials and Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study of 66 chronic urticaria patients who had the result of serology for Toxocara. Results: The seroprevalence of Toxocaraiasis in this population was 19.7%. Factors such as a history of consuming the raw vegetables, raising dogs and cats habit or soil-contacting frequently were at higher risk of toxocariasis in patients with chronic urticaria. Clinical symptoms such as itching and hives in patients were significantly reduced. 30.8% of patients had ELISA results (-) after 3 months of completing treatment; 23.07% of patients had liver dysfunction; and 15.4% of patients reported side effects of epigastric pain or digestive disorders during treatment. Conclusion: The seroprevalence of Toxocaraiasis in this population was 19.7%. Several factors have been identified to be associated with Toxocara seropositivity. Albendazol in the treatment of Toxocara infections is highly effective and relatively safe.