Clinical Observations of Generalized Pruritus

Lim, Hyun Jung; Lee, Jae Chul; Kim, Byung Soo; Lee, Weon Ju; Lee, Seok Jong; Kim, Do Won

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Generalized pruritus without primary skin lesion is a heterogenous condition and may persist for long periods, from months to years. Few studies of generalized pruritus have been carried out.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the causes, clinical manifestations and treatment courses of generalized pruritus.
METHODS
A total of 229 new patients (190 newly-visited dermatologic outpatients, 39 consulted inpatients from other clinical departments) with generalized pruritus without skin lesion who visited the Department of Dermatology, Kyungpook University Hospital, Daegu, Korea from July 2005~June 2008 were selected. The data was studied on the basis of a retrospective survey of hospital records.
RESULTS
The number of the patients with generalized pruritus was highest in the seventh decade of life. In 57.2% of total patients, generalized pruritus was a symptom of internal disease. Idiopathic pruritus was diagnosed in 20.5% of patients, and senile pruritus in 14.8% of patients. Among internal diseases, endocrine disease was the most common (29.0%). Temperature change was the most frequent aggravating factor (20.3%). For diurnal and seasonal variations, pruritus was frequently aggravated at night (35.9%) and in summer (18.8%). Topical treatment was the most common treatment modality.
CONCLUSION
This study describes the general aspects of generalized pruritus without skin lesion. An approach to the work-up of a patient with pruritus is suggested.