Both Prevalence and Severity of Pruritus are Associated with Age in Chinese Patients with Skin Diseases

Although the characteristics of pruritus in some skin diseases are documented, characteristics of pruritus related to gender-, age-, and skin disorder have not yet been well defined. To characterize dermatosis-associated pruritus in Chinese patients. A cross-sectional study was carried out in a single center. The intensity of pruritus was evaluated using a 0-10 visual analog scale (VAS). Skin disorders were diagnosed by dermatologists. The prevalence and intensity of pruritus were compared among skin disorders, and between males and females. Valid questionnaires were obtained from 1,246 female and 864 male patients. Patients with acne, eczematous dermatitis, and urticaria accounted for 18%, 17%, and 14%, respectively. Both the prevalence and severity of pruritus varied greatly with skin disorders (