Chronic pruritus associated with Helicobacter pylori
Roshini Kandyil1, Nadia S Satya, Robert A Swerlick
1University of Texas-Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA.
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery
|May 7, 2002
Summary
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection may cause unexplained, severe itching. Eradicating H. pylori with antibiotics relieved refractory pruritus in most patients studied.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a known cause of gastritis.
- H. pylori has been linked to various extradigestive conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential role of H. pylori in patients experiencing unexplained refractory pruritus.
- Investigate H. pylori as a causative agent for persistent itching.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated 10 patients with severe, treatment-resistant pruritus for active H. pylori infection.
- H. pylori infection was diagnosed via serology, followed by EGD or urea breath test.
- All patients received H. pylori eradication therapy; pruritus relief was reassessed.
Main Results:
- Eight out of ten patients had active H. pylori infection.
- Following H. pylori eradication therapy, 87.5% of infected patients experienced pruritus relief.
- Complete pruritus resolution occurred in 62.5% of treated patients; 25% had temporary relief.
Conclusions:
- A subset of patients with refractory pruritus and active H. pylori infection was identified.
- Successful eradication of H. pylori led to the resolution of pruritus in these patients.
- This suggests H. pylori may be an underlying cause of refractory pruritus in some individuals.
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