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Abdallah AM, Elsheikh SM, ElBarbary RA. Prevalence and determinants of severity of uremic pruritus in hemodialysis patients: a multicentric study. J Investig Med 2023; 71:42-46. [PMID: 36191944 DOI: 10.1136/jim-2022-002360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Uremic pruritus (UP) is a common and distressing symptom in patients with advanced or end-stage renal disease under hemodialysis (HD). The present multicentric study aimed to identify prevalence and determinants of severity of UP among Egyptian patients. Performed investigations included serum urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, parathormone, ferritin and liver enzymes. Pruritus was evaluated using the visual analog scale. The study included 295 patients on maintenance HD. They comprised 151 patients (51.2%) with UP. Independent predictors of UP included associated hypertension (OR: 0.48, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.83, p=0.008), higher calcium levels (OR: 1.29, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.62, p=0.032), higher phosphorus levels (OR: 1.18, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.37, p=0.03) and higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels (OR: 1.0, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.01, p=0.049). Independent predictors of significant UP included longer HD duration (OR: 1.23, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.38, p<0.001), lack of vitamin D supplementation (OR: 3.71, 95% CI 1.03 to 13.4, p=0.045), lower albumin levels (OR: 0.32, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.74, p=0.008) and higher hsCRP levels (OR (CRP): 1.02 (1.0-1.03), p=0.011). In conclusion, UP is fairly common among Egyptian HD patients. Independent predictors of UP severity include longer HD duration, lack of vitamin D supplementation, lower albumin levels and higher hsCRP levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samaa M Elsheikh
- Dermatology Department, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Rasha A ElBarbary
- Dermatology and Venereology Department, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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2
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Parvizi MM, Salami MH, Moini Jazani A, Javaheri R, Jaladat AM, Handjani F. Complementary and integrative remedies in the treatment of chronic pruritus: A review of clinical trials. J Cosmet Dermatol 2022; 21:5360-5369. [PMID: 35579366 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.15094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pruritus is one of the most common conditions in dermatology and a common manifestation in many systemic diseases. Since the etiology of chronic pruritus remains somewhat unknown, hence, conventional medications may not always show a good therapeutic response. This finding has led both investigators and patients to use herbal and complementary remedies for its treatment. The aim of this study was to review clinical trials in which herbal and complementary medicine was used in the control and treatment of chronic pruritus. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, we reviewed related articles in this domain, from 2000 to 2020. The search involved electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and SID databases using the keywords "pruritus," "itch," "herb," "complementary medicine," "traditional medicine," "integrative medicine," and their related MeSH terms. Finally, we extracted the pertinent information from these articles and summarized the results. RESULTS The findings of this study showed that 17 clinical trials have been conducted till date in order to evaluate the efficacy of herbal remedies and complementary medicines in the treatment of chronic pruritus. Herbal remedies including turmeric, Fumaria parviflora, Avena sativa, capsaicin, sweet almond oil, peppermint oil, violet oil, vinegar, as well as manual therapies including aromatherapy, auricular acupressure, and acupuncture, were significantly effective in the treatment of chronic pruritus. CONCLUSION There are only a few studies published on the therapeutic efficacy of herbal remedies and complementary medicine in the treatment of chronic pruritus. Some have shown promising results. Therefore, more evidence-based studies are needed in order to determine if herbal remedies and complementary medicine could be an effective alternative or adjuvant treatment modality in chronic pruritus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mahdi Parvizi
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Arezoo Moini Jazani
- Traditional medicine and hydrotherapy research center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Rojan Javaheri
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Mohammad Jaladat
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Department of Persian Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farhad Handjani
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
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3
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Gazerani P. How Does Botulinum Toxin Inhibit Itch? Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14100701. [PMID: 36287970 PMCID: PMC9610088 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14100701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Two decades after reports of the anti-pruritic effects of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), there is still no approved product for the anti-itch indication of BoNTs, and most clinical case reports still focus on the off-label use of BoNTs for various itchy conditions. Few randomized clinical trials have been conducted with controversial results, and the beneficial effects of BoNTs against itch are mainly based on case studies and case series. These studies are valuable in presenting the potential application of BoNTs in chronic pruritic conditions, but due to the nature of these studies, they are categorized as providing lower levels of evidence or lower grades of recommendation. To obtain approval for the anti-pruritic indication of BoNTs, higher levels of evidence are required, which can be achieved through conducting large-scale and well-designed studies with proper control groups and established careful and reliable primary and secondary outcomes. In addition to clinical evidence, presenting the mechanism-based antipruritic action of BoNTs can potentially strengthen, accelerate, and facilitate the current efforts towards further investments in accelerating the field towards the potential approval of BoNTs for itchy conditions. This review, therefore, aimed to provide the state-of-the-art mechanisms underlying the anti-itch effect of BoNTs from basic studies that resemble various clinical conditions with itch as a hallmark. Evidence of the neuronal, glial, and immune modulatory actions of BoNTs in reducing the transmission of itch are presented, and future potential directions are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Gazerani
- Department of Life Sciences and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, 0130 Oslo, Norway; or
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg East, Denmark
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Gurnani P, Miloh T, Chandar J, Landau DA, Hajjar F, Yosipovitch G. Systemic causes of non-dermatologic chronic pruritus in the pediatric population and their management: An unexplored area. Pediatr Dermatol 2021; 38:1051-1060. [PMID: 34515372 DOI: 10.1111/pde.14596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pruritus associated with systemic diseases in the pediatric population has been infrequently addressed in the literature. This review focuses on chronic pruritus presenting without cutaneous manifestations. Common systemic etiologies include diseases with hepatic, renal, and hematologic origins. This encompasses several congenital liver disorders, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and lymphoproliferative disorders such as Hodgkin's lymphoma. In this paper, an expert panel describes the clinical characteristics, pathophysiology, and therapeutic treatment ladders for chronic pruritus associated with the aforementioned systemic etiologies. Novel therapies are also reviewed. Our aim is to shed light on this unexplored area of pediatric dermatology and instigate further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Gurnani
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery & Miami Itch Center, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Florida International University, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Tamir Miloh
- Pediatric Transplant Hepatology, Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Health System, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jayanthi Chandar
- Pediatric Kidney Transplantation, Miami Transplant Institute, Jackson Health System, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Fouad Hajjar
- AdventHealth For Children Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Gil Yosipovitch
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery & Miami Itch Center, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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5
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Thompson BA, Dear K, Donaldson E, Nixon R, Winship IM. A novel candidate gene in autosomal dominant facial pruritus. Clin Exp Dermatol 2021; 47:184-186. [PMID: 34386996 DOI: 10.1111/ced.14883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Pruritus is a common and often debilitating symptom that is associated with dermatological conditions including eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, urticaria, some drug eruptions and less commonly systemic diseases and neuropathic causes1 . We report here an unusual familial centrofacial pruritus without any history or clinical findings of a rash, affecting three siblings and their father. The index patient (ll-1; Figure 1a) was a 62-year-old female with a 20-year history of severe localised pruritus of the nose. Her predominant symptom was debilitating itch on the surface of the skin around her nasal bridge, nasal septum and the nasal alae. She had no associated nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, skin changes nor rash and there was no relation to seasons, being outdoors, time of day, occupation, or food intake. Possible triggers included a warm environment and exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Thompson
- Department of Pathology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Genomic Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - K Dear
- Occupational Dermatology Research and Education Centre, Skin Health Institute, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - E Donaldson
- Department of Genomic Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - R Nixon
- Occupational Dermatology Research and Education Centre, Skin Health Institute, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - I M Winship
- Department of Genomic Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Ardinata D, Zain-Hamid R, Roesyanto-Mahadi ID, Mihardja H. Interleukin-31 Serum And Pruritus Dimension After Acupuncture Treatment In Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.5599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Interleukin (IL)-31 serum levels were significantly higher in hemodialysis patients with pruritus, whereas acupuncture in LI11 was shown to improve symptoms of pruritus. However, there is limited information that IL-31 serum levels that correlate with decreased dimensions of the pruritus after acupuncture in LI11 in a hemodialysis patient.
AIM: The aim of the study was to demonstrate the impact of acupuncture in LI11 and IL-31 serum level and its correlation with dimensions of the pruritus in hemodialysis patients.
METHODS: A randomized clinical trial has been carried out from August 2019 to December 2019 at H. Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia. Sixty patients underwent hemodialysis who were randomly allocated to two groups, one group got acupuncture in Quchi LI11 (intervention group), and the other group got a placebo (control group). IL-31 serum levels and pruritus were measured before and after 6 weeks of acupuncture in both groups.
RESULTS: Acupuncture did not significantly reduce IL-31 (p = 0.931) and decreased dimensions: Degree, duration, disability, and distribution of the pruritus between the intervention group and the control group after 6 weeks of acupuncture in LI11. It can be shown that there is no significant correlation between IL-31 serum levels and dimensions of the pruritus.
CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the effect of acupuncture on reducing dimensions of the pruritus not related to IL-31 serum levels. Identifying the action mechanism of acupuncture to minimize pruritus considerably enhances knowledge of the impacts of acupuncture on reducing pruritus in hemodialysis patients.
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Murray-Brown FL. Naltrexone for cholestatic itch: a systematic review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021; 11:217-225. [PMID: 33692114 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholestatic itch is caused by intrahepatic liver diseases, such as primary biliary cirrhosis and extrahepatic obstruction of the biliary tree, often caused by tumours. The pathophysiology of cholestatic itch is complex and no single treatment has proved definitive. Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist, which reduces central opioidergic tone, believed to be raised in patients with cholestatic pruritus. AIM To review and assess the efficacy of oral naltrexone for the treatment of cholestatic itch. METHODS Search of electronic databases, grey literature, clinical trials registries and handsearching for studies including naltrexone for cholestatic itch. Full papers were obtained if relevant and studies graded. RESULTS Thirteen papers were included in the analysis, including three randomised controlled trials, one controlled clinical trial, one open-label pilot study, seven case reports and one retrospective notes review. All studies found naltrexone to be effective in relieving pruritus. In all five studies performing statistical analysis, naltrexone significantly reduced pruritus compared with baseline. 37% of patients reported side effects, notably opioid withdrawal-type reactions and recurrence of previous pain, from all pathologies. CONCLUSIONS Oral naltrexone therapy helps relieve cholestatic itch and although it should be used with caution in patients using exogenous opioids for analgesia, it should be considered when treating refractory pruritus in patients with end-stage liver disease.
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Ahn YH, Kang HR. Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of chronic pruritus. ALLERGY ASTHMA & RESPIRATORY DISEASE 2021. [DOI: 10.4168/aard.2021.9.4.189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Hae Ahn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye-Ryun Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Korea
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9
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Deleuran M, Georgescu V, Jean-Decoster C. An Emollient Containing Aquaphilus dolomiae Extract is Effective in the Management of Xerosis and Pruritus: An International, Real-World Study. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2020; 10:1013-1029. [PMID: 32666271 PMCID: PMC7477020 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-020-00415-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Xerosis and pruritus are common manifestations of numerous dermatologic and systemic diseases. We evaluated the effectiveness of an emollient containing an Aquaphilus dolomiae extract (ADE-G1) for the management of pruritus and xerosis in patients of all age with a range of dermatologic and systemic diseases. METHODS This open-label, real-world study involved 5910 patients from 33 European, South American, Asian, and North and South African countries, who applied the product for 7 days twice daily to the face and body after the skin had been cleansed and dried. The physician assessed xerosis severity and patients assessed pruritus severity, the duration of itch, sleep quality, and the impact of their skin disease on their quality of life, using scales derived from the SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index and questionnaires, at inclusion and after 7 days of use. RESULTS The 7-day care regimen resulted in 56% and 60% reductions in xerosis and pruritus severity, respectively, regardless of the underlying pathology (p < 0.0001), with the largest decreases observed for patients with ichthyosis for xerosis and for patients post scabies treatment for pruritus. The mean sleep disturbance and mean total Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores were also reduced by 58% and 60% (p < 0.0001), respectively. The emollient was effective whether the product was used alone or in combination with topical or systemic treatments and was well tolerated. CONCLUSION Our study shows that the 7-day regimen with the emollient was a universally effective treatment for pruritus and xerosis, regardless of the underlying pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Deleuran
- Department of Dermatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Victor Georgescu
- Laboratoires Dermatologiques Avène, Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmétique, Lavaur, France
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10
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Association between Prurigo Nodularis and Etiologies of Peripheral Neuropathy: Suggesting a Role for Neural Dysregulation in Pathogenesis. MEDICINES 2020; 7:medicines7010004. [PMID: 31936197 PMCID: PMC7167799 DOI: 10.3390/medicines7010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Prurigo nodularis (PN) is an intensely pruritic skin condition of considerable morbidity. However, the pathogenesis of PN and its association with underlying neuropathy is unclear. Objective: We sought to investigate the association between PN and etiologies of peripheral neuropathy. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of adult patients (≥18-year-old) with PN, AD, and Psoriasis at the Johns Hopkins Health System over a six-year period (January 2013–January 2019) was performed. The strength of association with etiologies of peripheral neuropathy were compared to a control cohort of individuals without PN, as well as those with AD or psoriasis. Results: A total of 1122 patients with PN were compared to 10,390 AD patients, 15,056 patients with psoriasis, and a control cohort of 4,949,017 individuals without PN, with respect to 25 comorbidities associated with peripheral neuropathies. Limitations: Comparisons between peripheral neuropathies and PN represent associations but are not causal relationships. Conclusion: Prurigo nodularis is strongly associated with peripheral neuropathies, suggesting a role for neural dysregulation in pathogenesis.
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11
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3'-O-Methylorobol Inhibits the Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Nav1.7 with Anti-Itch Efficacy in A Histamine-Dependent Itch Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20236058. [PMID: 31805638 PMCID: PMC6928743 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20236058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
An itch is a clinical complication that affects millions of patients. However, few treatment options are available. The voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.7 is predominantly expressed in peripheral sensory neurons and is responsible for the rising phase of action potentials, thereby mediating nociceptive conduction. A gain-of-function mutation of Nav1.7 results in the hyperexcitability of sensory neurons and causes the inherited paroxysmal itch. Conversely, a monoclonal antibody that selectively inhibits Nav1.7 is able to effectively suppress the histamine-dependent itch in mice. Therefore, Nav1.7 inhibitors may possess the potential to relieve the itch. In the present study, using whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings, we demonstrated that 3’-O-methylorobol inhibited Na+ currents in Nav1.7-CHO cells and tetrodotoxin-sensitive Na+ currents in mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons with IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) values of 3.46 and 6.60 μM, respectively. 3’-O-methylorobol also suppressed the tetrodotoxin-resistant Na+ currents in DRG neurons, though with reduced potency (~43% inhibition at 30 µM). 3’-O-methylorobol (10 µM) affected the Nav1.7 by shifting the half-maximal voltage (V1/2) of activation to a depolarizing direction by ~6.76 mV, and it shifted the V1/2 of inactivation to a hyperpolarizing direction by ~16.79 mV. An analysis of 3’-O-methylorobol activity toward an array of itch targets revealed that 3’-O-methylorobol was without effect on histamine H1 receptor, TRPV1, TRPV3, TRPV4, TRPC4 and TRPM8. The intrathecal administration of 3’-O-methylorobol significantly attenuated compound 48/80-induced histamine-dependent spontaneous scratching bouts and the expression level of c-fos in the nuclei of spinal dorsal horn neurons with a comparable efficacy to that of cyproheptadine. Our data illustrated the therapeutic potential for 3’-O-methylorobol for histamine-dependent itching, and the small molecule inhibition of Nav1.7 may represent a useful strategy to develop novel therapeutics for itching.
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Abstract
HIV has long been associated with a number of inflammatory, infectious, and neoplastic skin conditions. In the era of anti-retroviral therapy, we have discovered even more about the relationship between skin disease and chronic immunosuppression. In particular, clinicians still face the propensity of persons living with HIV to develop difficult-to-control viral infections, chronic skin inflammation, and pruritus and—particularly as patients age—various types of skin cancers. Here, we summarize recent updates in the field of HIV dermatology and make recommendations to providers caring for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Coates
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Kieron S Leslie
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
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13
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Kowalski EH, Kneiber D, Valdebran M, Patel U, Amber KT. Treatment-resistant prurigo nodularis: challenges and solutions. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2019; 12:163-172. [PMID: 30881076 PMCID: PMC6400231 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s188070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Prurigo nodualris (PN) is a chronic condition with highly pruritic, hyperkeratotic papules or nodules arising in the setting of chronic pruritus. While PN may serve as a phenotypic presentation of several underlying conditions such as atopic dermatitis, chronic kidney disease-related pruritus, and neurological diseases, it represents a distinct clinical entity that may persist despite the removal of the underlying cause, if one is identified. Neuronal proliferation, eosinophils, mast cells, and small-fiber neuropathy play a role in the production of pruritus in PN, although the exact mechanism has not yet been established. Identifying an underlying cause, if present, is essential to prevent recurrence of PN. Due to often present comorbidities, treatment is typically multimodal with utilization of topical and systemic therapies. We performed a PubMed/MEDLINE search for PN and present a review of recent developments in the treatment of PN. Treatment typically relies on the use of topical or intralesional steroids, though more severe or recalcitrant cases often necessitate the use of phototherapy or systemic immunosuppressives. Thalidomide and lenalidomide can both be used in severe cases; however, their toxicity profile makes them less favorable. Opioid receptor antagonists and neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists represent two novel families of therapeutic agents which may effectively treat PN with a lower toxicity profile than thalidomide or lenalidomide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric H Kowalski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,
| | - Diana Kneiber
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,
| | - Manuel Valdebran
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Umangi Patel
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,
| | - Kyle T Amber
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,
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14
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Vázquez-Herrera NE, Sharma D, Aleid NM, Tosti A. Scalp Itch: A Systematic Review. Skin Appendage Disord 2018; 4:187-199. [PMID: 30197900 PMCID: PMC6120392 DOI: 10.1159/000484354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Scalp itch is a frequent complaint in the dermatological setting. It is common for the dermatologist to encounter patients with no evident cause of scalp pruritus, making it a distressing situation for both the clinician and the patient. The aim of this paper is to propose a systematic approach to scalp itch, which classifies scalp pruritus into two types: (1) with or (2) without dermatological lesions, and presence or absence of hair loss. Also, it is important to think first about the most common causes and then rule out other, less common etiologies. The acronym SCALLP and the five steps for scalp evaluation (listen, look, touch, magnify, and sample) are useful tools to keep in mind for an assertive approach in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Divya Sharma
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Nouf Mohammed Aleid
- Department of Dermatology, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Antonella Tosti
- Fredric Brandt Endowed Professor of Dermatology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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15
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Alizadeh N, Mirpour SH, Golmohamadi R, Darjani A, Eftekhari H, Rafiei R, Gharaei Nejad K, Azimi SZ. Chronic generalized pruritus without primary skin lesions: a longitudinal prospective observational study. Int J Dermatol 2018; 58:273-278. [DOI: 10.1111/ijd.14125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 04/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Narges Alizadeh
- Skin Research Center; Department of Dermatology; Razi hospital; School of Medicine; Guilan University of Medical Sciences; Rasht Iran
| | - Seyyed Hossein Mirpour
- Department of Hematology and Oncology; Razi hospital; School of Medicine; Guilan University of Medical Sciences; Rasht Iran
| | - Razieh Golmohamadi
- Skin Research Center; Department of Dermatology; Razi hospital; School of Medicine; Guilan University of Medical Sciences; Rasht Iran
| | - Abbas Darjani
- Skin Research Center; Department of Dermatology; Razi hospital; School of Medicine; Guilan University of Medical Sciences; Rasht Iran
| | - Hojat Eftekhari
- Skin Research Center; Department of Dermatology; Razi hospital; School of Medicine; Guilan University of Medical Sciences; Rasht Iran
| | - Rana Rafiei
- Skin Research Center; Department of Dermatology; Razi hospital; School of Medicine; Guilan University of Medical Sciences; Rasht Iran
| | - Kaveh Gharaei Nejad
- Skin Research Center; Department of Dermatology; Razi hospital; School of Medicine; Guilan University of Medical Sciences; Rasht Iran
| | - Seyyede Zeinab Azimi
- Skin Research Center; Department of Dermatology; Razi hospital; School of Medicine; Guilan University of Medical Sciences; Rasht Iran
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16
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Boozalis E, Tang O, Patel S, Semenov YR, Pereira MP, Stander S, Kang S, Kwatra SG. Ethnic differences and comorbidities of 909 prurigo nodularis patients. J Am Acad Dermatol 2018; 79:714-719.e3. [PMID: 29733939 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.04.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a poorly understood, understudied pruritic dermatosis that reduces quality of life. OBJECTIVE To characterize the demographics and comorbidities associated with PN. METHODS Cross-sectional study of patients 18 years and older who were seen at the Johns Hopkins Health System between December 6, 2012, and December 6, 2017. RESULTS Over the past 5 years, 909 patients with PN were seen at Johns Hopkins Health System. African American patients were 3.4 times more likely to have PN than white patients were (odds ratio [OR], 3.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.9-3.9; P < .001). A comparison of the study patients and race-matched controls revealed that PN was significantly associated with a variety of systemic, cardiovascular, and psychiatric comorbidities, including chronic kidney disease, chronic hepatitis C, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, depression, and atopic dermatitis. Black patients with PN were 10.5 times more likely (OR, 10.5; 95% CI, 7.9-13.9; P < .001) to have HIV than were race-matched controls with atopic dermatitis, and 8 times more likely (OR, 8.0; 95% CI, 5.7-11.1; P < .001) to have HIV than were African American patients with psoriasis. LIMITATIONS Our data describe patients seen by 1 hospital system. Our data identify associated conditions and comorbidities but are unable to support a causal relationship. CONCLUSION PN disproportionately affects African Americans and is associated with several systemic conditions, including HIV, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Boozalis
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Olive Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Shivani Patel
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yevgeniy R Semenov
- Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Manuel P Pereira
- Center for Chronic Pruritus, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sonja Stander
- Center for Chronic Pruritus, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sewon Kang
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Shawn G Kwatra
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.
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Pruritus: Progress toward Pathogenesis and Treatment. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:9625936. [PMID: 29850592 PMCID: PMC5925168 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9625936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pruritus, the most common cutaneous symptom, is widely seen in many skin complaints. It is an uncomfortable feeling on the skin and sometimes impairs patients' quality of life. At present, the specific mechanism of pruritus still remains unclear. Antihistamines, which are usually used to relieve pruritus, ineffectively work in some patients with itching. Recent evidence has suggested that, apart from histamine, many mediators and signaling pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of pruritus. Various therapeutic options for itching correspondingly have been developed. In this review, we summarize the updated pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies for pruritus.
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Roncero C, Grau-López L, Palma-Álvarez RF, Rodriguez-Cintas L, Ros-Cucurull E, Esojo A, Daigre C. Higher severity of cocaine addiction is associated with tactile and somatic hallucinations. Eur Psychiatry 2016; 42:63-69. [PMID: 28212507 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to describe the features of cocaine-dependent patients who have had cocaine-induced tactile/somatic hallucinations (CITSH), and to analyze the association with addiction-related variables and psychiatric comorbidity, comparing patients with CITSH, patients with cocaine psychotic symptoms (CIP) and no CITSH, and patients without any psychotic symptom. METHOD A cross-sectional study was conducted in 767 cocaine-dependent patients in an outpatient treatment center for addictions. The following data were obtained: sociodemographic characteristics, CIP information, addiction-related variables and psychiatric comorbidity. A bivariate and multivariate analysis was performed. RESULTS Of the whole sample, 6.6% reported CITSH at some point of their lives, 48.4% had suffered some CIP other than CITSH, and 45% had not experienced any psychotic symptom. According to multivariate analysis, risk of overdose increases by 12.1 (OR) times the probability of having had CITSH compared patients with CIP-no-CITSH. Other variables associated to patients with CITSH were: age of drug use onset, presence of episodes of overdose, prevalence of psychotic disorder induced by cocaine. In general, in all variables studied, patients with CITSH presented worse clinical features (addiction variables and psychiatric comorbidity) than patients with CIP without CITSH and non-CIP group. CONCLUSION CITSH are usually associated with other psychotic symptoms induced by cocaine. The patients who experienced CITSH are more severe cases compared both with patients with CIP without CITSH and patients without CIP. Increased risk of overdose is an important issue in this type of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Roncero
- Addiction and Dual Diagnosis Unit, Psychiatry Department, University Hospital Vall Hebron - ASPB, CIBERSAM, Passieg Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autónoma Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - L Grau-López
- Addiction and Dual Diagnosis Unit, Psychiatry Department, University Hospital Vall Hebron - ASPB, CIBERSAM, Passieg Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autónoma Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R F Palma-Álvarez
- Addiction and Dual Diagnosis Unit, Psychiatry Department, University Hospital Vall Hebron - ASPB, CIBERSAM, Passieg Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Rodriguez-Cintas
- Addiction and Dual Diagnosis Unit, Psychiatry Department, University Hospital Vall Hebron - ASPB, CIBERSAM, Passieg Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autónoma Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Ros-Cucurull
- Addiction and Dual Diagnosis Unit, Psychiatry Department, University Hospital Vall Hebron - ASPB, CIBERSAM, Passieg Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autónoma Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Esojo
- Addiction and Dual Diagnosis Unit, Psychiatry Department, University Hospital Vall Hebron - ASPB, CIBERSAM, Passieg Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Daigre
- Addiction and Dual Diagnosis Unit, Psychiatry Department, University Hospital Vall Hebron - ASPB, CIBERSAM, Passieg Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
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Zhou FM, Cheng RX, Wang S, Huang Y, Gao YJ, Zhou Y, Liu TT, Wang XL, Chen LH, Liu T. Antioxidants Attenuate Acute and Chronic Itch: Peripheral and Central Mechanisms of Oxidative Stress in Pruritus. Neurosci Bull 2016; 33:423-435. [PMID: 27783328 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-016-0076-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Itch (pruritus) is one of the most disabling syndromes in patients suffering from skin, liver, or kidney diseases. Our previous study highlighted a key role of oxidative stress in acute itch. Here, we evaluated the effects of antioxidants in mouse models of acute and chronic itch and explored the potential mechanisms. The effects of systemic administration of the antioxidants N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and N-tert-butyl-α-phenylnitrone (PBN) were determined by behavioral tests in mouse models of acute itch induced by compound 48/80 or chloroquine, and chronic itch by treatment with a mixture of acetone-diethyl-ether-water. We found that systemic administration of NAC or PBN significantly alleviated compound 48/80- and chloroquine-induced acute itch in a dose-dependent manner, attenuated dry skin-induced chronic itch, and suppressed oxidative stress in the affected skin. Antioxidants significantly decreased the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species directly induced by compound 48/80 and chloroquine in the cultured dorsal root ganglia-derived cell line ND7-23. Finally, the antioxidants remarkably inhibited the compound 48/80-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase in the spinal cord. These results indicated that oxidative stress plays a critical role in acute and chronic itch in the periphery and spinal cord and antioxidant treatment may be a promising strategy for anti-itch therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Ming Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Ruo-Xiao Cheng
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Ya Huang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yong-Jing Gao
- Institute of Nautical Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Teng-Teng Liu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xue-Long Wang
- Beijing Electric Power Hospital, Beijing, 100073, China
| | - Li-Hua Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Tong Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China. .,Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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Pruritus: an overview. What drives people to scratch an itch? THE ULSTER MEDICAL JOURNAL 2016; 85:164-173. [PMID: 27698518 PMCID: PMC5031103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Pruritus is a common complaint associated with many conditions. It negatively impacts sleep, quality of life, and mortality. Itch is transmitted along both histaminergic and non-histaminergic pathways with a complex interplay between keratinocytes, immune cells and cutaneous neurons. Individuals who present with pruritus should undergo a thorough assessment, especially those over 65 years old, to exclude underlying malignancy. Treatment no longer consists of antihistamines alone. Physicians now have an array of therapies in their armamentarium, to help alleviate this distressing symptom.
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Osthole inhibits histamine-dependent itch via modulating TRPV1 activity. Sci Rep 2016; 6:25657. [PMID: 27160770 PMCID: PMC4861971 DOI: 10.1038/srep25657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Osthole, an active coumarin isolated from Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson, has long been used in China as an antipruritic herbal medicine; however, the antipruitic mechanism of osthole is unknown. We studied the molecular mechanism of osthole in histamine-dependent itch by behavioral test, Ca(2+) imaging, and electrophysiological experiments. First, osthole clearly remitted the scratching behaviors of mice induced with histamine, HTMT, and VUF8430. Second, in cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, osthole showed a dose-dependent inhibitory effect to histamine. On the same neurons, osthole also decreased the response to capsaicin and histamine. In further tests, the capsaicin-induced inward currents were inhibited by osthole. These results revealed that osthole inhibited histamine-dependent itch by modulating TRPV1 activity. This study will be helpful in understanding how osthole exerts anti-pruritus effects and suggests that osthole may be a useful treatment medicine for histamine-dependent itch.
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