Pruritus in elderly: Classification and management

Abstract

Pruritus is majority complaint that is often encountered in dermatology. The diagnosis and management of pruritus still became important health problem in elderly. It is estimated that one fifth of the world’s population experience chronic pruritus which can affect their quality of life. The lifetime prevalence of chronic pruritus in the general population was 22%. In the elderly, two thirds of the population are reported to experience pruritus. Based on the onset of symptom, pruritus is divided into acute pruritus and chronic pruritus. While based on clinical complaints, pruritus is divided into pruritus originating from the skin, neuropathic pruritus, neurogenic pruritus, and psychogenic pruritus. Elderly skin is sensitive skin, which often gives complaints of itching. Pruritus, especially in elderly, requires treatment that must be adapted to the pathophysiology. Treatment of pruritus in the elderly can include topical therapy, systemic therapy and phototherapy. The management approach to pruritus consists of 4 important pillars, namely basic therapy, targeted therapy, symptomatic therapy, and therapy for accompanying diseases.