Pruritus

Pruritus is the medical terminology used to describe the sensation of itching. It is a common symptom associated with various conditions and can significantly affect an individual's quality of life.

Itching Fingers

Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel

Definition

Pruritus is characterized by an uncomfortable sensation on the skin that elicits the desire to scratch. It is a subjective feeling, meaning that it is experienced and reported by the patient and cannot be directly measured by healthcare professionals.

Causes

Pruritus can arise due to a myriad of reasons, ranging from benign skin conditions to more systemic illnesses:

• Dermatological Causes: Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, urticaria, and dermatitis are common skin diseases that lead to itching.
• Systemic Causes: Liver diseases, kidney diseases, thyroid disorders, and certain cancers can manifest as pruritus.
• Infections: Parasitic infections like scabies or fungal infections such as athlete's foot can cause localized or generalized itching.
• Medications: Some drugs may have side effects that result in pruritus.
• Environmental Factors: Dry skin due to environmental conditions or excessive washing can lead to itching.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the underlying cause of pruritus often involves:

• A thorough patient history
• Physical examination
• Blood tests to rule out systemic causes
• Skin biopsies or scrapings in certain cases

Treatment

The treatment of pruritus largely depends on identifying and managing its cause:

• Topical treatments: Moisturizers, anti-itch creams, or ointments containing corticosteroids are often the first line of treatment.
• Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines can help in alleviating itching, especially if it's allergy-related.
• Systemic therapies: For pruritus due to systemic diseases, addressing the primary condition is crucial. This might involve altering medications, managing underlying diseases, or other specialized treatments.
• Phototherapy: Exposing the skin to certain wavelengths of light can be beneficial for some patients, especially those with conditions like psoriasis.

Prevention

Maintaining good skin hygiene, staying hydrated, and avoiding known irritants can help in preventing pruritus. Regular moisturization and using gentle, fragrance-free soaps can also be beneficial.

See Also

• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Dermatitis
• Urticaria
• Antihistamines
• Corticosteroids

Pruritus Resources
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