Pruritus, or itching of the skin, is a frequently distressing symptom which may interfere with the quality of life of a patient, for example preventing normal sleep. It should therefore be taken seriously.

Itching which is experienced as a feeling, arises in the skin from a cutaneous nerve stimulation mediated via several substances (histamine, vasoactive peptides, enkephalins, substance P and prostaglandins) (2).

The sensation of Pruritus may be enhanced by chronic or intense scratching creating a distinctive itch-scratch-itch cycle (3). It is one of the most common complaints in the elderly patient population. Most often dry skin, otherwise known as xerosis is the commonest cause in these patients. (2).

Reference:

• 1. Moses S. Pruritus. AAFP 2003; 68(6)
• 2. National cancer institute 2008. Pruritus
• 3. Steinhoff M et al. Neurophysiological, Neuroimmunological, and Neuroendocrine Basis of Pruritus. JID 2006; 126:1705-1718.