Pruritus (ITCH) Flashcards
1
Q
what is the definition of itch?
A
a usually unpleasant , poorly localised, non adapting sensation that provokes the desire to scratch
2
Q
what can mediate itch?
A
chemical mediators
nerve transmission
central nervous system mediators
3
Q
what are the 4 types of things that can cause itch?
A
pruritoceptive
neuropathic
neurogenic
psychogenic
4
Q
what is pruitoceptive itch
A
something in the skin triggers the itch
5
Q
what is neuropathic itch/
A
damage of any sort to central or peripheral nerves causing itch
6
Q
what is neurogenic itch?
A
itch caused by opiate effect
7
Q
what is psychogenic itch?
A
itch in delusion of infestaion
8
Q
management of itch?
A
anti-itch treatment- emollients antidepressants sedative anti-histamines phototherapy opiate antagonists
