Acupuncture for uremic pruritus: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

Uremic pruritus (UP) or chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKD-aP) is one of the most intractable dermatologic symptom in patients with chronic kidney disease. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been conducted to investigate the antipruritic effects of acupuncture on UP/CKD-aP and suggested a significant therapeutic effect, while the evidence supporting the application of acupuncture is limited. This study will assess the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for patients with UP/CKD-aP. This review will update evidence of RCTs evaluating acupuncture for UP/CKD-aP. It will benefit patients and impact health-care decision-making regarding the models of care that are feasible for patients.