Chloroquine induced pruritus--questionnaire based epidemiological study

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Epidemiology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Chloroquine (CQ) is a widely used medication for malaria, amoebiasis, and connective tissue diseases.
• Chloroquine-induced pruritus (CP) is a significant side effect, particularly limiting its use in Black populations.
• Understanding the epidemiology and clinical features of CP is essential for its management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the factors and features associated with the development of chloroquine-induced pruritus (CP).
• To determine the prevalence, duration, and affected body sites of CP in a Nigerian tertiary hospital.
• To explore potential triggers and relieving factors for CP.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based epidemiological study.
• Involved medical and nursing students, doctors, and other healthcare workers with a history of CP.
• Data collected on personal and familial history of CP, duration, intensity, affected sites, and relieving factors.

Main Results:

• CP intensity was not reduced by lower chloroquine doses.
• 92% of subjects had close relatives who experienced CP.
• Itching typically lasted 1-3 days (84.5%), with generalized itching and involvement of hands, legs, and perineum being common.
• Oral chloroquine caused itching in 100% of cases, while intramuscular injection caused itching in 49%.

Conclusions:

• Chloroquine-induced pruritus is a prevalent issue in Nigeria, with a strong familial predisposition.
• The development of a cost-effective antidote for CP is urgently needed to ensure the continued utility of chloroquine in Nigeria and West Africa.
• Further research into the mechanisms and management of CP is warranted.