Management of Pruritus

Abstract

Pruritus, or itch, is a common sensation that causes a person to want to scratch. It is a complex process that commonly occurs with skin disorders such as xerotic eczema, atopic dermatitis and urticaria. It may also be related to an underlying disease process such as cholestasis or hyperthyroidism or simply be caused by dry skin, especially in the cold. Effective treatment of pruritus can prevent scratch-induced complications such as lichen simplex chronicus and impetigo. Therapy is often aimed at eliminating the underlying cause first, followed by the management of the itchy sensation.