Pruritus

Pruritus refers to a usually unpleasant, but common, sensation of the skin that causes a desire to scratch. It can be caused by dermatological or systemic conditions, iatrogenically secondary to medications, or as part of a normal response to external substances or parasites. Complications from persistent scratching can reduce the efficacy of the skin as a protective barrier, by leading to excoriation or lichenification of the skin. In severe presentations, pruritus can lead to significant morbidity from mood and sleep disturbances. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms and treating the underlying cause. This article will discuss how best to recognise, investigate and manage patients suffering from pruritus.