Pruritus Flashcards
1
Q
What does pruritus mean?
A
itchy
2
Q
What chemical mediators cause itch?
A
Histamine, acetylcholine, interleukin 2, substance P
3
Q
What is the nerve transmission involved in itch?
A
Unmyelinated C fibres
4
Q
What anti-itch treatments are available?
A
Sedative anti-histamines like piritin Emollients, especially cooled in the fridge. Antidepressants- including SSRIs Phototherapy Opiate antagonists e.g. ondansetron
5
Q
What medication would you give if the itch was caused by biliary obstruction?
A
Ursodeoxycholic acid
