Pruritus (itch) Flashcards
what is the common consequence of an itch
scratch (itch = scratch cycle)
what are the 4 causes of itch
pruritoceptive
neuropathic
neurogenic
psychogenic
what causes a pruritoceptive itch
inflammation/dryness of skin
generalised itch
what is an example of a pruritoceptive itch
scabies
what causes a neuropathic itch
damage to CNS system = DERMATOMAL
what is an example of a neuropathic itch
shingles
what causes a neurogenic itch
neurological issue (but no CNS damage)
generalised itch
what is an example of a neurogenic itch
primary biliary sclerosis, kidney disease, lung metastasis, thyroid disease etc
what is the cause of a psychogenic itch
delusion (no CNS damage)
what is the general treatment of an itch
treat cause
what is the treatment of a pruritoceptive itch
antihistamines
emollients
what is the treatment of a neuropathic itch
anti-epileptics
opiate antagonists
anti depressants
what is a complication of a chronic itch (from itch = scratch cycle)
prurigo nodularis (type of dermatitis)
