Pruritus

Pruritus is itching sensation triggered by dry skin/atopic dermatitis/systemic disease (renal/hepatic/cholestatic/thyroid/hematologic/neuropathic/psychogenic), localized or generalized. Treatment: identify/treat underlying cause; emollients; gentle skin care (avoid hot showers/soaps); H1 antihistamines (histaminergic pruritus); topical corticosteroids for eczematous causes; gabapentin/pregabalin for neuropathic; naltrexone/cholestyramine for cholestatic; phototherapy; doxepin; avoid scratching; follow-up dermatology/internal medicine.

Common Symptoms

Localized/generalized itching; by dry skin/atopic/systemic cause

Causes and Pathogenesis

Histaminergic/neuropathic/cholestatic/uremic pathways activate pruriceptors.

Treatment

Emollients; antihistamines; topical steroids; gabapentinoids; phototherapy; treat cause

Preventive Measures

Moisturize; gentle skin care; treat underlying disease.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology/Internal-medicine/Allergy department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.