Diagnosis and Management of Neuropathic Itch

Neuropathic pruritus is a challenging condition that can be caused by injury or dysfunction in any part of the nervous system. A vast array of clinical pictures exist, including both localized and generalized pruritus, and their principal entities are described in this article. Diagnosis is often difficult and depends on patient history, imaging, and neurophysiologic studies. Other causes of chronic itch should be excluded. The management of neuropathic itch is demanding and the majority of interventions are not curative. The best treatment options include anticonvulsants, topical anesthetics, and capsaicin.