Efficacy of general aerocryotherapy in reducing pruritus in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria and prurigo: literature review

Chronic spontaneous urticaria and prurigo are debilitating skin conditions characterized by persistent pruritus and inflammation, often leading to significant reductions in quality of life. Conventional treatments, including antihistamines, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive therapies, may prove ineffective, leading to the need for alternative treatment approaches. Innovative methods such as general aerocryotherapy, in which cold air is applied to the skin site, have attracted much attention. It is believed to work through vasoconstriction, inhibition of mediator release from mast cells, and modulation of sensory nerve impulses, ultimately reducing inflammation and itching. Early research has revealed positive signs that aerocryotherapy could help reduce the itch intensity and inflammation in individuals with a range of skin disorders. In the present systematic literature review, the use of general aerocryotherapy as an additional treatment approach for chronic spontaneous urticaria and prurigo will be explored in terms of contribution to reduction in symptoms and the quality of life of a patient. Finally, we summarize clinical evidence from clinical trials, review the rationale of aerocryotherapy in terms of pathophysiology, and list the therapeutic strategies for its application in the practice of dermatology. Further studies are needed to refine aerocryotherapy treatment regimens and investigate its long-term effects, particularly in post-traumatic chronic wounds and other skin diseases.