Burns pruritus--a study of current practices in the UK

Pruritus is a universal symptom associated with burns healing. Little research has been conducted to assess physicians' attitudes and management principles in specialist units. A survey of UK burn units has identified a variety of opinions on the importance of various factors affecting the incidence of pruritus and a lack of a systematic approach in the assessment and treatment of this distressing symptom. A clear pattern emerged favouring the use of antihistaminergic agents for burns pruritus management with a low uptake of agents acting on the central nervous system as well as non-pharmacological adjuncts. The cumulative responses from the cohort of respondents are presented and issues pertinent to further research and clinical management are discussed.