European S2k Guideline on Chronic Pruritus

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Internal Medicine
• Clinical Guideline Development

Background:

• Chronic pruritus (CP) is a prevalent symptom, affecting approximately 20% of the general population with a 7% 12-month incidence.
• CP impacts all age groups and is linked to various complex medical conditions, requiring thorough diagnostic evaluation for underlying causes and comorbidities.
• Effective management of CP involves addressing the root disease and employing topical and systemic treatments in a structured, interdisciplinary manner.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an updated European guideline on the diagnosis and management of chronic pruritus.
• To consolidate expert recommendations for a targeted, multimodal, and step-wise treatment approach to CP.
• To incorporate recent advancements in on-label therapies for specific conditions like chronic prurigo and cholestatic pruritus.

Main Methods:

• Development of a guideline by a multidisciplinary team of European pruritus experts.
• Review and synthesis of current evidence and clinical experience in managing chronic pruritus.
• Inclusion of newly approved on-label therapies for specific pruritic conditions.

Main Results:

• The guideline emphasizes a precise diagnostic work-up to identify causes and comorbidities of CP.
• It advocates for a targeted, multimodal, and step-wise management strategy requiring an interdisciplinary approach.
• Recent therapeutic advancements for chronic prurigo and cholestatic pruritus are integrated into the guideline.

Conclusions:

• Updated European guideline provides a framework for managing chronic pruritus.
• Interdisciplinary and multimodal approaches are crucial for effective CP treatment.
• Integration of novel therapies enhances management options for specific CP subtypes.