Find in Library
Search millions of books, articles, and more
Indexed Open Access Databases
Predicting Factors and Clinical Characteristics of Pruritus in Psoriasis: A Cross-Sectional Survey
oleh: Silviu-Horia Morariu, Ovidiu Simion Cotoi, Oana Mirela Tiucă, Mircea Ambros, Roxana-Ioana Ilcuș, Liuba Garaga, Ailincăi Raluca, Diana Horea, Andreea-Beatrix Bălan, Mădălina Husariu, Anca Gînj, Alexandra Țiplic, Andrea Hidi, Biborka Szabo, Radu Alexandru Stan, Alin Codruț Nicolescu
Format: | Article |
---|---|
Diterbitkan: | MDPI AG 2024-06-01 |
Deskripsi
Pruritus is an important symptom among patients affected by psoriasis. To date, no general agreement has been established regarding pruritus as a measure of psoriasis severity. This study aims to assess psoriatic pruritis prevalence and characteristics using a comprehensive itch questionnaire. A semi-structured questionnaire consisting of 48 questions was applied to patients diagnosed with psoriasis and admitted to the Dermatology Department of Mures Clinical County Hospital, Romania. A total of 163 patients were enrolled, out of which 115 (70.55%) reported itch. Patients with itch had higher PASI (<i>p</i> = 0.003) and DLQI scores (<i>p</i> < 0.001). The itch was most frequently described as a crawling sensation, mainly located in the lesional skin and aggravated by stress and temperature variation. It had a moderate intensity (6.18 ± 2.46). Emollients were the treatment preferred by most patients in alleviating itch, while biologics exerted a protective effect on itch development (OR = −0.24; <i>p</i> < 0.0001) and negatively correlated with itch intensity (r = −0.23; <i>p</i> < 0.0001). Advanced age, high BMI, and PASI scores were indicators of itch presence, while female gender, high PASI score, and frequent itch episodes indicate highly intense pruritus (≥7 on the VAS). A better understanding of itch and its clinical features will guide physicians toward the best treatment option and would, ultimately, benefit the patient.