Autohemotherapy combined with other external treatments of Traditional Chinese Medicine for chronic urticaria: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Chronic urticaria (CU) is a refractory, recurrent skin disease that adversely affects patients' quality of life, mental health. Autohemotherapy (AHT) and various external treatments of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are reported to be effective in improving CU with few side effects. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of AHT combined with various TCM external treatments for CU.
Methods: This study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. 11 Chinese and English databases were searched from database inception to August 10, 2025, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on AHT combined with other TCM external treatments for CU. Two researchers independently completed literature screening and data extraction. Study quality was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 (RoB 2.0). Meta-analysis was performed using STATA 18.0.
Results: A total of 20 studies involving 1,461 participants were included. The intervention group received AHT combined with other TCM external treatments, and the control group received Western medicine. The overall response rate was significantly better in the intervention group (RR: 1.17; 95% Confidence Interval, CI: 1.10-1.24; p p p p p < 0.005). However, the results for pruritus severity and wheal duration were not robust and showed significant publication bias; therefore, their reliability is questionable.
Conclusion: Autohemotherapy…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,461 participants or records.
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