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Updated: Oct 23, 2025
04:59
Cheek Injection Model for Simultaneous Measurement of Pain and Itch-related Behaviors
Published on: September 27, 2019
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Itch: Epidemiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic workup
Youkyung S Roh1, Justin Choi1, Nishadh Sutaria1
1Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|August 24, 2021
Summary
Itch, or pruritus, is a common sensation causing scratching, impacting quality of life. Understanding its diverse causes and diagnostic workup is crucial for effective clinical management.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Internal Medicine
- Clinical Science
Background:
- Itch (pruritus) is a prevalent symptom with diverse etiologies including dermatologic, systemic, and psychogenic factors.
- Chronic itch significantly impairs sleep and reduces patients' quality of life.
- Elderly individuals and African Americans may experience a greater burden of itch.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology and conditions associated with itch.
- To outline the clinical presentation and diagnostic evaluation for patients experiencing itch.
- To provide a foundation for managing this common symptom.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on itch epidemiology and clinical presentation.
- Description of recommended initial laboratory tests (CBC, liver, kidney, thyroid function, diabetes screening).
- Guidance on further diagnostic testing based on history and physical examination.
Main Results:
- Itch etiology is variable, posing diagnostic challenges for clinicians.
- Malignancy should be suspected in older adults with liver disease and recent-onset diffuse itch.
- Elevated blood eosinophils can indicate T helper cell type 2 polarization in chronic pruritus.
Conclusions:
- A systematic approach to evaluating itch is essential for accurate diagnosis.
- Initial laboratory screening and targeted investigations are key to identifying underlying causes.
- Recognizing specific patient populations and biomarkers aids in managing chronic itch.
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