Comorbidities of Chronic Prurigo: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Chronic prurigo (CPG) is an inflammatory skin disease. Comorbidities including dermatological, cardiovascular, and psychiatric diseases have been reported in patients with CPG; however, the evidence has not been systematically evaluated. We aim to summarize the comorbidities, discuss underlying pathogenesis, and highlight the evaluation of CPG patients. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> We performed a systematic search using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases for all articles reporting possible associated diseases with CPG. Pooled random-effects odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CI were calculated. <b><i>Results:</i></b> A total of 17 studies were included in this systematic review. Statistically significant association (<i>p</i> &lt;0.05) with CPG has been demonstrated with atopic diseases: atopic dermatitis (pooled OR, 10.91; 95% CI, 3.65–32.67), allergic rhinitis (2.66; 1.12–6.27), asthma (3.23; 1.55–6.74); infectious diseases: hepatitis B (pooled OR, 2.15; 95% CI, 1.11–4.14); endocrine diseases: diabetes (pooled OR, 4.93; 95% CI, 1.13–21.56), type 1 diabetes (2.46; 2.16–2.81), type 2 diabetes (1.89; 1.34–2.68), hyperlipoproteinemia (2.90; 1.61–5.22); cardiovascular diseases: heart failure (pooled OR, 4.13; 95% CI, 1.15–14.91), hypertension (3.17; 1.56–6.45); respiratory system diseases: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (pooled OR, 3.19; 95% CI, 1.42–7.16); urinary system diseases: chronic kidney disease (pooled OR, 4.16; 95% CI, 1.79–9.66); digestive system disease: inflammatory bowel disease (pooled OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.26–3.36); and others: osteoporosis (pooled OR, 3.08; 95% CI, 1.70–5.59), thyroid disease (1.70; 1.17–2.47). <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> CPG is associated with various systemic disorders. Recognition of comorbidities is critical to the appropriate management of affected patients.