Alexithymia and asthma: a systematic review

Growing evidence from scientific research elucidates the important role of alexithymia in chronic immune diseases. This Review aims to explore the presence of alexithymia in patients affected by asthma and clarify its associations with other involved psychological and physical factors. In January 2023, according to PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search using PubMed and Scopus was conducted. Twenty-six studies were eligible based on inclusion criteria. Alexithymia was significantly present in asthma patients, with most studies reporting a higher prevalence (from 9 to 62.8%) than in control groups (approximately 10%). The coexistence of asthma and alexithymia was associated with a worse quality of life, psychiatric comorbidity, poor symptom control, and difficulty in recognizing exacerbations of the disease. These results suggest that alexithymia can negatively impact the management of asthma. For this reason, we recommend an accuracy assessment in clinical settings and the implementation of psychological interventions to promote the emotional and physical wellbeing of asthmatic patients.

Automated summary

Growing evidence suggests the important role of alexithymia in chronic immune diseases. This review examines alexithymia in asthma patients and its associations with psychological and physical factors. A systematic search yielded 26 eligible studies, demonstrating a significant presence of alexithymia in asthma patients. The coexistence of asthma and alexithymia was linked to a lower quality of life, psychiatric comorbidity, poor symptom control, and difficulty in recognizing exacerbations. These findings highlight the negative impact of alexithymia on asthma management, emphasizing the need for accurate assessment and psychological interventions.