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Pruritus, Pediatric

Anubhav Mathur, MD, PhD and Ilona J. Frieden, MD Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Pruritus, or itch, is one of the most frequent dermatologic complaints. It is an unpleasant sensation characterized by the reflexive behavior to scratch and is a symptom associated w...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Acute versus chronic (>6 weeks) of pruritus

  • Location: generalized, scattered spots or localized

  • Severity of symptoms

  • Presence or absence of a preceding or concurrent rash

  • Family member...

TREATMENT

  • Treatment is directed to the underlying cause.

  • Supportive measures:

    • Gentle skin care measures—including the use of nonsoap cleansers and gentle emollients

    • Loose cotton clothing

    • Sedating antihist...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Cassano N, Tessari G, Vena GA, et al. Chronic pruritus in the absence of skin disease: an update on pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy. Am J Clin Dermatol.  2010;11(6):399...

CODES

ICD9

  • 698.9 Unspecified pruritic disorder

  • 306.3 Skin disorder arising from mental factors

  • 691.8 Other atopic dermatitis and related conditions

  • 698.2 Prurigo

ICD10

  • L29.9 Pruritus, unspecified

  • F45.8 Other...

FAQ

  • Q: Which antihistamines work the best to treat itch?

  • A: Although evidence is conflicting, sedating antihistamines such as hydroxyzine tend to work better than nonsedating ones for itch. An exceptio...

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