The societal costs associated with patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in Italy.

Introduction: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a debilitating dermatological disease. The study aimed to estimate the indirect costs and out-of-pocket expenses incurred by CSU patients in Italy. Methods: The economic model was based on data collected through a survey conducted among patients and caregivers with the support of the Association for the Research and Cure of Urticaria (ARCO). Disease severity was classified into three categories: mild, moderate and severe. Indirect costs were estimated using the human capital approach. Out-of-pocket expenses were estimated in terms of direct healthcare costs borne by the patient and direct non-healthcare costs. Results: Data were analyzed for 122 patients; 7% of these reported mild CSU, 16% moderate and 78% severe. The average age was 46.8 years, with an average age at diagnosis of 38.2 years. Overall, 50% of employed patients lost workdays due to CSU, and 63.3% reported reduced productivity at work; 45.1% of patients received caregiver support, with 37.9% of employed caregivers reporting workdays lost. The economic model estimated an average annual indirect cost per patient with CSU of €4,281, mainly due to presenteeism (59%). Indirect costs increase with the severity of the disease. Average annual out-of-pocket expenses was €502.7 per patient. Conclusions: The study conducted based on data directly reported by patients could contribute to a better understanding of CSU, thereby promoting a more efficient approach to the care and support of patients and their families.