Abstract

Scalp pruritus is a frequent problem encountered in dermatological practice. This disorder is caused by various underlying diseases and is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Scalp pruritus may be localized to the scalp or extended to other body areas. It is sometimes not only associated with skin diseases or specific skin changes, but also associated with lesions secondary to rubbing or scratching. Moreover, scalp pruritus may be difficult to diagnose and manage and may have a great impact on the quality of life of patients. It can be classified as dermatologic, neuropathic, systemic, and psychogenic scalp pruritus based on the potential underlying disease. A thorough evaluation of patients presenting with scalp pruritus is important. Taking history and performing physical examination and further investigations are essential for diagnosis. Therapeutic strategy comprises removal of the aggravating factors and appropriate treatment of the underlying condition. All treatments should be performed considering an individual approach. This review article focuses on the understanding of the pathophysiology and the diagnostic and therapeutic management of scalp pruritus.

Highlights

  • Pruritus, known as itch, is an unpleasant sensation that evokes a desire to scratch [1]

  • Dermatomyositis, sometimes show that scalp pruritus is one of the important treatment-resistant symptoms [4]. This specific problem was termed in previous articles as “itchy scalp,” “scalp pruritus,” or “pruritus capitis,” depending on the authors’ preference

  • This review article aims to provide the understanding of the pathophysiology and the diagnostic and therapeutic management of scalp pruritus

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Summary

Introduction

Known as itch, is an unpleasant sensation that evokes a desire to scratch [1] It is a major and distressing symptom of various cutaneous and systemic diseases. Dermatomyositis, sometimes show that scalp pruritus is one of the important treatment-resistant symptoms [4]. This specific problem was termed in previous articles as “itchy scalp,” “scalp pruritus,” or “pruritus capitis,” depending on the authors’ preference. Information on scalp pruritus remains limited and quite complicated This disorder is challenging and requires better understanding of the clinical characteristics and underlying pathogenesis to establish effective diagnosis and therapeutic approaches. This review article aims to provide the understanding of the pathophysiology and the diagnostic and therapeutic management of scalp pruritus

Epidemiology
Pathophysiology
Classification of Scalp Pruritus
Diagnostic Approach of Scalp Pruritus
Management
Findings
Conclusion
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