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Chronic urticaria and vitamin D supplementations: a systematic review.

  • 2025-07-31
  • European journal of medical research 30(1)
    • Ayesha Siddiqui
    • Aruna Bai
    • Haresh Kumar
    • Yash Roop Mandhwani
    • Anjali Bai
    • Priya Bai
    • Neha Kumar
    • F N U Muskan
    • Sumaiya Jatoi
    • Zulfiqar Ali
    • Abida Parveen

Study Design

Type
Systematic Review
Sample size
n = 491
Population
patients with chronic urticaria (CU), especially chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU)
Methods
systematic review in accordance with PRISMA guidelines; searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar; included RCTs, case-control, and observational studies

Background

Chronic urticaria (CU), especially chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), is a long-term inflammatory skin condition marked by wheals and/or angioedema lasting over six weeks. Emerging evidence suggests a link between vitamin D deficiency and immune dysregulation associated with CU. Given vitamin D's immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, this review explores the therapeutic potential of vitamin D supplementation in CU management.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines Electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) were searched using relevant keywords. Studies included were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), case-control, and observational studies assessing serum vitamin D levels or supplementation in patients with CU. Data extraction and bias assessment were independently conducted using standardized tools: the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results

Eleven studies involving 1,491 participants were included. Most studies demonstrated significantly lower serum 25(OH)D levels in patients with CU compared to healthy controls. Vitamin D supplementation, particularly in individuals with a deficiency, was associated with reductions in urticaria activity scores, symptom severity, and improved quality of life. High-dose regimens (e.g., 4,000 IU/day or 60,000 IU/week) appeared more effective. However, results varied due to heterogeneity in study design, dosage, and patient characteristics.

Conclusion

Vitamin D supplementation may serve as a safe, accessible adjunct to standard CU treatment, particularly for those with confirmed deficiency. While evidence suggests potential benefits, further high-quality RCTs are needed to establish causality, optimal dosing, and long-term efficacy.

Research Insights

  • Vitamin D→Improved Quality of Life

    Vitamin D supplementation, particularly in individuals with a deficiency, was associated with reductions in urticaria activity scores, symptom severity, and improved quality of life.

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Moderate
    Dose
    4000 IU/day or 60000 IU/week
  • Vitamin D→Reduced Symptom Severity

    Vitamin D supplementation, particularly in individuals with a deficiency, was associated with reductions in urticaria activity scores, symptom severity, and improved quality of life.

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Moderate
    Dose
    4000 IU/day or 60000 IU/week
  • Vitamin D→Reduced Urticaria Activity Score

    Vitamin D supplementation, particularly in individuals with a deficiency, was associated with reductions in urticaria activity scores, symptom severity, and improved quality of life.

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Moderate
    Dose
    4000 IU/day or 60000 IU/week
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