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Pereira MP, Metz M. [Neuropathy in pruritus medicine : Recommended diagnostics and therapy]. DERMATOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024:10.1007/s00105-024-05374-z. [PMID: 38869846 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-024-05374-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Chronic itch is a frequent and debilitating condition that greatly affects the quality of life of those affected. In a subset of patients, damage to the peripheral or central nervous system constitutes the cause of the itch. Small-fiber neuropathy, nerve compression syndromes, post-herpetic neuralgia, scars and burns are possible conditions affecting the peripheral nervous system potentially causing itch, whereas space-occupying lesions affecting the spinal cord and stroke are examples of conditions that may induce central itch. Neuropathic itch starts on normal appearing skin, is often accompanied by pain sensations and other dysesthesias, and usually relieved by local cold application. Its distribution depends on the affected site of the somatosensory system. A comprehensive medical history is paramount to reach the diagnosis, while complementary diagnostics with skin biopsies for the investigation of cutaneous neuromorphological alterations or medical imaging to rule out nerve impingement may be advised in selected cases. Topical agents such as capsaicin or local anesthetics as well as systemic drugs such as gabapentinoids, antidepressants and opioid receptor modulators are used in the treatment of neuropathic itch. This review article provides an overview of the clinical features, underlying causes, diagnostic workup and therapeutic approach in neuropathic itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel P Pereira
- Institut für Allergieforschung, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 27, 12203, Berlin, Deutschland.
- Immunologie und Allergologie, Fraunhofer Institut für Translationale Medizin und Pharmakologie ITMP, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - Martin Metz
- Institut für Allergieforschung, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 27, 12203, Berlin, Deutschland
- Immunologie und Allergologie, Fraunhofer Institut für Translationale Medizin und Pharmakologie ITMP, Berlin, Deutschland
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Poddar S, Mondal H, Podder I. Aetiology, pathogenesis and management of neuropathic itch: A narrative review with recent updates. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2024; 90:5-18. [PMID: 37317726 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_846_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic itch is a relatively common yet under-reported cause of systemic pruritus. It is a debilitating condition often associated with pain, which impairs the patient's quality of life. Although much literature exists about renal and hepatic pruritus, there is a dearth of information and awareness about neuropathic itch. The pathogenesis of neuropathic itch is complex and can result from an insult at any point along the itch pathway, ranging from the peripheral receptors and nerves until the brain. There are several causes of neuropathic itch, many of which do not produce any skin lesions and are thus, often missed. A detailed history and clinical examination are necessary for the diagnosis, while laboratory and radiologic investigations may be needed in select cases. Several therapeutic strategies currently exist involving both non-pharmacological and pharmacological measures, the latter including topical, systemic, and invasive options. Further research is ongoing to clarify its pathogenesis and to design newer targeted therapies with minimal adverse effects. This narrative review highlights the current understanding of this condition, focusing on its causes, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management, along with newer investigational drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Poddar
- Department of Dermatology, Asansol District Hospital, Asansol, West Bengal, India
| | - Himel Mondal
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Deoghar, Jharkhand, India
| | - Indrashis Podder
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine & Sagore Dutta Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Orliaguet M, Brenaut E, Ficheux A, Boisramé S, Misery L. Psychogenic and neurogenic components in patients with psychogenic or neuropathic pruritus: PRURINEURO: A non-interventional single-centre prospective assay. SKIN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2023; 3:e267. [PMID: 38047259 PMCID: PMC10690707 DOI: 10.1002/ski2.267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Background The causes of pruritus are multiple and commonly classified into six different categories: dermatological, systemic, neuropathic, psychogenic, mixed and idiopathic. In clinical practice, psychogenic and neurogenic mechanisms tend to be separated in the etiological diagnosis of neuropathic or psychogenic disorders; nevertheless, studies investigating the respective psychogenic and neurogenic components are lacking. Objective The main objective of this work was to highlight the differences and potential common characteristics between psychogenic pruritus and neuropathic pruritus. Methods This study was a noninterventional single-centre prospective assay. Patients with neuropathic (NP) or psychogenic (PP) pruritus were proposed to participate. The psychogenic and neurogenic components of pruritus in these patients were evaluated using six validated questionnaires or criteria, namely, the diagnosis criteria of psychogenic pruritus, the NP5 questionnaire, the Brest Pruritus Qualitative Assessment Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, and DN4i. Results Twenty-five patients with NP and 15 with PP were included. A difference between the two groups was observed for NP5, with mean scores of 2.8 ± 0.9 and 1.4 ± 1 for the NP and PP groups, respectively (p < 0.0001). For depression, the average score was 3.5 ± 3.9 for the NP group and 7.5 ± 5.1 for the PP group (p < 0.02). Conclusion While neuropathic and psychogenic disorders are different diagnoses, neuropathic and psychogenic components may exist simultaneously in patients with NP or PP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Orliaguet
- LIENUniversity BrestBrestFrance
- Departments of Oral SurgeryBrest University HospitalBrestFrance
| | - Emilie Brenaut
- LIENUniversity BrestBrestFrance
- Departments of DermatologyBrest University HospitalBrestFrance
| | - Anne‐Sophie Ficheux
- LIENUniversity BrestBrestFrance
- Departments of DermatologyBrest University HospitalBrestFrance
| | - Sylvie Boisramé
- Departments of Oral SurgeryBrest University HospitalBrestFrance
| | - Laurent Misery
- LIENUniversity BrestBrestFrance
- Departments of DermatologyBrest University HospitalBrestFrance
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Fardel M, Brenaut E, Guellec D, Etienne M, Fouchard M, Seizeur R, Misery L. Pruritus and brain tumours: A prospective and descriptive study. SKIN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ski2.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marie‐Anne Fardel
- Department of Dermatology University Hospital of Brest Brest France
- University of Brest LIEN Brest France
| | - Emilie Brenaut
- Department of Dermatology University Hospital of Brest Brest France
- University of Brest LIEN Brest France
| | - Dewi Guellec
- University of Brest LIEN Brest France
- Department of Neurosurgery University Hospital of Brest Brest France
| | - Maxime Etienne
- Department of Dermatology University Hospital of Brest Brest France
- University of Brest LIEN Brest France
| | - Maxime Fouchard
- Department of Dermatology University Hospital of Brest Brest France
- University of Brest LIEN Brest France
| | - Romuald Seizeur
- University of Brest LIEN Brest France
- Department of Neurosurgery University Hospital of Brest Brest France
| | - Laurent Misery
- Department of Dermatology University Hospital of Brest Brest France
- University of Brest LIEN Brest France
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Furka A, Simkó C, Kostyál L, Szabó I, Valikovics A, Fekete G, Tornyi I, Oross E, Révész J. Treatment Algorithm for Cancerous Wounds: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051203. [PMID: 35267512 PMCID: PMC8909326 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In advanced cancer stage the incidence of cancerous wounds is about 5%, and the estimated life expectancy is not more than 6 to 12 months. Without interdisciplinary and individualized treatment strategy, symptoms progress, and adversely influence quality of life. METHODS Authors collected different treatment algorithms for cancerous wound published by wide scale of medical expertise, and summarized surgical, oncological, radiation oncological, nursing and palliative care aspects based on radiological information. RESULTS Interdisciplinary approach with continuous consultation between various specialists can solve or ease the hopeless cases. CONCLUSIONS This distressing condition needs a comprehensive treatment solution to alleviate severe symptoms. Non-healing fungating wounds without effective therapy are severe socio-economic burden for all participants, including patients, caregivers, and health services. In this paper authors collected recommendations for further guideline that is essential in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Furka
- Centre of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary; (I.S.); (A.V.); (G.F.); (E.O.); (J.R.)
- Department of Clinical Radiology, Faculty of Health Care, Institute of Practical Methodology and Diagnostics, University of Miskolc, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-309988499
| | - Csaba Simkó
- Erzsébet Hospice, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital Miskolc, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary;
| | - László Kostyál
- Department of Clinical Radiology, Faculty of Health Care, Institute of Practical Methodology and Diagnostics, University of Miskolc, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary;
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital Miskolc, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary
| | - Imre Szabó
- Centre of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary; (I.S.); (A.V.); (G.F.); (E.O.); (J.R.)
| | - Anikó Valikovics
- Centre of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary; (I.S.); (A.V.); (G.F.); (E.O.); (J.R.)
| | - Gábor Fekete
- Centre of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary; (I.S.); (A.V.); (G.F.); (E.O.); (J.R.)
| | - Ilona Tornyi
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Biosystems Immunolab Zrt., 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Endre Oross
- Centre of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary; (I.S.); (A.V.); (G.F.); (E.O.); (J.R.)
| | - János Révész
- Centre of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital and University Teaching Hospital, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary; (I.S.); (A.V.); (G.F.); (E.O.); (J.R.)
- Department of Clinical Radiology, Faculty of Health Care, Institute of Practical Methodology and Diagnostics, University of Miskolc, 3526 Miskolc, Hungary;
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Huet F, Taieb C, Corgibet F, Brenaut E, Richard MA, Misery L. Pruritus, Pain, and Depression Associated with the Most Common Skin Diseases: Data from the French Study "Objectifs Peau". Dermatology 2021; 238:448-453. [PMID: 34515100 DOI: 10.1159/000518220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence and impact of pruritus, pain, and other sensory symptoms in skin diseases are poorly known. OBJECTIVE To assess the frequency of these symptoms with dermatoses and their association with depression using data from the "Objectifs Peau" survey. METHODS A representative sample of 20,012 French individuals was created using the usual quota method. RESULTS When patients suffered from both pruritus and skin pain, they had a higher relative risk of psychological suffering (2.9) than those who suffered only from pruritus (1.4) or skin pain (1.2). Pruritus was reported in 48.55% of patients with acne, 43.24% with mycoses, 44.35% with warts, and 36.51% with rosacea. For skin pain, the results were 11.22%, 27.59%, and 16.13% for atopic dermatitis, acne, and warts, respectively. Other unpleasant sensations, such as tingling or burning, were also frequently reported. CONCLUSION Pruritus, pain, or other sensory symptoms were found to be common not only in classic pruritic skin diseases but also in acne, rosacea, or warts. The association of pruritus and pain dramatically increased psychological suffering. These symptoms must be systematically searched for in patients, especially since new therapeutic possibilities are emerging for the symptomatic treatment of pruritus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavien Huet
- Société Française de Dermatologie (SFD), Paris, France.,Service de Dermatologie, CHRU de Brest, Brest, France.,Univ Brest, LIEN, Brest, France
| | - Charles Taieb
- Société Française de Dermatologie (SFD), Paris, France
| | - Florence Corgibet
- Société Française de Dermatologie (SFD), Paris, France.,Fédération Française de Formation Continue et d'Evaluation en Dermatologie-Vénéréologie (FFFCED), Paris, France
| | - Emilie Brenaut
- Société Française de Dermatologie (SFD), Paris, France.,Service de Dermatologie, CHRU de Brest, Brest, France.,Univ Brest, LIEN, Brest, France.,Collège des Enseignants en Dermatologie de France (CEDEF), Paris, France
| | - Marie-Aleth Richard
- Société Française de Dermatologie (SFD), Paris, France.,Collège des Enseignants en Dermatologie de France (CEDEF), Paris, France.,Service de Dermatologie, CHU Timone, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Misery
- Société Française de Dermatologie (SFD), Paris, France.,Service de Dermatologie, CHRU de Brest, Brest, France.,Univ Brest, LIEN, Brest, France.,Collège des Enseignants en Dermatologie de France (CEDEF), Paris, France
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Pereira MP, Wiegmann H, Agelopoulos K, Ständer S. Neuropathic Itch: Routes to Clinical Diagnosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:641746. [PMID: 33732722 PMCID: PMC7959783 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.641746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic itch occurs due to damage of neurons of the peripheral or central nervous system. Several entities, including metabolic, neurodegenerative, orthopedic, infectious, autoimmune, malignant, and iatrogenic conditions, may affect the somatosensory system and induce neuropathic itch. Due to the complex nature of neuropathic itch, particularly concerning its clinical presentation and possible etiological factors, diagnostic work-up of this condition is challenging. A detailed medical history, especially in regard to the itch, and a comprehensive physical examination are relevant to detect characteristic signs and symptoms of neuropathic itch and to rule out other possible causes for chronic itch. Complementary diagnostic exams, especially laboratory tests, determination of the intraepidermal nerve fiber density via a skin biopsy and radiological examinations may be indicated to confirm the diagnosis of neuropathic itch and to identify underlying etiological factors. Functional assessments such as quantitative sensory testing, nerve conduction studies, evoked potentials, or microneurography may be considered in particular cases. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnostic work-up recommended for patients with neuropathic itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Pedro Pereira
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Henning Wiegmann
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Konstantin Agelopoulos
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sonja Ständer
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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Ingen-Housz-Oro S. Quoi de neuf en dermatologie clinique? Ann Dermatol Venereol 2019; 146:12S1-12S10. [DOI: 10.1016/s0151-9638(20)30100-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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