Knowledge, Attitude and Practice toward Pruritus Management among Physicians and Patients Living With Diabetes Mellitus: A Quantitative Survey in India

Kalra Sanjay,Rathod Rahul,Mane Amey,Mittal Asit,Pinto Colette,Rathod Roheet M

doi:10.23937/2469-5750/1510110

Abstract

Pruritus is a common dermatological condition which may have systemic etiology. Diabetes is one such condition; pruritus is commonly seen in patients with diabetes thus making it a dermatometabolic condition. The present survey aimed to understand the knowledge, attitude, and practice toward pruritus among Indian physicians and patients living with diabetes presenting with pruritus.

Highlights

Pruritus or itching is a commonly occurring skin condition characterized by an unpleasant sensation of skin which arouses the desire to scratch [1]
The survey concluded that Indian physicians considered diabetes, environmental factors, and stress as the major causes of diabetes associated pruritus, they preferred using diagnostic tests and treatments providing symptomatic benefits
There are a large proportion of persons living with diabetes who choose to self-medicate and need adequate counseling and awareness regarding pruritus as it is a serious dermatometabolic condition

Summary

Introduction

Pruritus or itching is a commonly occurring skin condition characterized by an unpleasant sensation of skin which arouses the desire to scratch [1]. The pathophysiology of pruritus can be understood through peripheral mechanisms such as physical stimuli, neural pathways, and chemical mediators or through central. Pathophysiological, and psychological factors, pruritus can be classified into four clinical categories neurogenic, psychogenic, neuropathic, and pruritoceptive [2]. A high proportion of patients presenting with pruritus have an underlying systemic condition [5], so ascertaining the etiology of pruritus is imperative to ensure correct clinical course of action. Pruritus is a common dermatological condition which may have systemic etiology. Diabetes is one such condition; pruritus is commonly seen in patients with diabetes making it a dermatometabolic condition. The present survey aimed to understand the knowledge, attitude, and practice toward pruritus among Indian physicians and patients living with diabetes presenting with pruritus

Results

Discussion

Conclusion