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Meltan S, Panuganti B, Tarbox M. Evaluation and Management of Pruritus and Scabies in the Elderly Population. Clin Geriatr Med 2024; 40:91-116. [PMID: 38000864 DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2023.09.010] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Pruritus is the most common dermatologic complaint in the geriatric population. Its growing prevalence coincides with the rapid growth of the elderly population (>65 years of age) in the United States. According to the US Census Bureau, 16.9% of the population, or more than 56 million adults 65 years and older, lived in the United States in 2022. Pruritus is a condition that accompanies a diverse array of underlying etiologic factors. The mechanism of normal itch impulse transmission has been recently elucidated. The itch sensation originates from epidermal/dermal receptors connected to unmyelinated, afferent C-fibers that transmit the impulse from the periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakira Meltan
- School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, TX, USA
| | | | - Michelle Tarbox
- Department of Dermatology, Texas Tech Health Science Center, 3601 4th Street, Stop 9400, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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Farmer WS, Marathe KS. Atopic Dermatitis: Managing the Itch. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1447:191-207. [PMID: 38724794 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-54513-9_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis has a substantial impact on sleep, appearance, psychological well-being, and other qualities of life. The visual appearance of lichenification, cheilitis, hyperpigmentation, ichthyosis, and erythema can be socially stigmatizing, and treatment of these symptoms is challenging. In managing pruritus in patients, practitioners should assess and document pruritus through questionnaires at each routine visit. Initially, practitioners should advise patients to employ nonpharmaceutical treatments such as emollients with wet wraps, elimination of triggers, changing scratching habits, and psychological interventions. If these methods of treatment are not successful or if the disease presentation is severe, pharmacological therapies should be employed. This chapter describes the therapeutic ladder for pruritus in atopic dermatitis and discusses each treatment modality in further detail for practitioners to advise their patients.First-line topical pharmaceutical agents include topical glucocorticoids and topical calcineurin inhibitors. Second-line topical agents include coal tar, menthol, capsaicin, or doxepin. After the use of topical agents has been exhausted, primary systemic agents can be applied. These include sedating antihistamines, nonsedating antihistamines, oral glucocorticoids, or cyclosporine A. Finally, neuromodulating or immunomodulating agents can be attempted, including SSRI/SNRIs, TCAs, immunosuppressants, neural modulators, and opioid receptor modulators. Outside of pharmacological treatments, phototherapy has been shown to provide a dramatic improvement of pruritus in atopic dermatitis and can be used at any stage of treatment including as a first-line agent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kalyani S Marathe
- Department of Dermatology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Boehlke C, Joos L, Coune B, Becker C, Meerpohl JJ, Buroh S, Hercz D, Schwarzer G, Becker G. Pharmacological interventions for pruritus in adult palliative care patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 4:CD008320. [PMID: 37314034 PMCID: PMC11339634 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd008320.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This is the second update of the original Cochrane review published in 2013 (issue 6), which was updated in 2016 (issue 11). Pruritus occurs in patients with disparate underlying diseases and is caused by different pathologic mechanisms. In palliative care patients, pruritus is not the most prevalent but is a burdening symptom. It can cause considerable discomfort and negatively affect patients' quality of life. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of different pharmacological treatments compared with active control or placebo for preventing or treating pruritus in adult palliative care patients. SEARCH METHODS For this update, we searched CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library), MEDLINE (OVID) and Embase (OVID) up to 6 July 2022. In addition, we searched trial registries and checked the reference lists of all relevant studies, key textbooks, reviews and websites, and we contacted investigators and specialists in pruritus and palliative care regarding unpublished data. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of different pharmacological treatments, compared with a placebo, no treatment, or an alternative treatment, for preventing or treating pruritus in palliative care patients. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed the identified titles and abstracts, performed data extraction and assessed the risk of bias and methodological quality. We summarised the results descriptively and quantitatively (meta-analyses) according to the different pharmacological interventions and the diseases associated with pruritus. We assessed the evidence using GRADE and created 13 summary of findings tables. MAIN RESULTS In total, we included 91 studies and 4652 participants in the review. We added 42 studies with 2839 participants for this update. Altogether, we included 51 different treatments for pruritus in four different patient groups. The overall risk of bias profile was heterogeneous and ranged from high to low risk. The main reason for giving a high risk of bias rating was a small sample size (fewer than 50 participants per treatment arm). Seventy-nine of 91 studies (87%) had fewer than 50 participants per treatment arm. Eight (9%) studies had low risk of bias in the specified key domains; the remaining studies had an unclear risk of bias (70 studies, 77%) or a high risk of bias (13 studies, 14%). Using GRADE criteria, we judged that the certainty of evidence for the primary outcome (i.e. pruritus) was high for kappa-opioid agonists compared to placebo and moderate for GABA-analogues compared to placebo. Certainty of evidence was low for naltrexone, fish-oil/omega-3 fatty acids, topical capsaicin, ondansetron and zinc sulphate compared to placebo and gabapentin compared to pregabalin, and very low for cromolyn sodium, paroxetine, montelukast, flumecinol, and rifampicin compared to placebo. We downgraded the certainty of the evidence mainly due to serious study limitations regarding risk of bias, imprecision, and inconsistency. For participants suffering from uraemic pruritus (UP; also known as chronic kidney disease (CKD)-associated pruritus (CKD-aP)), treatment with GABA-analogues compared to placebo likely resulted in a large reduction of pruritus (visual analogue scale (VAS) 0 to 10 cm): mean difference (MD) -5.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) -5.56 to -4.55; five RCTs, N = 297, certainty of evidence: moderate. Treatment with kappa-opioid receptor agonists (difelikefalin, nalbuphine, nalfurafine) compared to placebo reduced pruritus slightly (VAS 0 to 10 cm, MD -0.96, 95% CI -1.22 to -0.71; six RCTs, N = 1292, certainty of evidence: high); thus, this treatment was less effective than GABA-analogues. Treatment with montelukast compared to placebo may result in a reduction of pruritus, but the evidence is very uncertain (two studies, 87 participants): SMD -1.40, 95% CI -1.87 to -0.92; certainty of evidence: very low. Treatment with fish-oil/omega-3 fatty acids compared to placebo may result in a large reduction of pruritus (four studies, 160 observations): SMD -1.60, 95% CI -1.97 to -1.22; certainty of evidence: low. Treatment with cromolyn sodium compared to placebo may result in a reduction of pruritus, but the evidence is very uncertain (VAS 0 to 10 cm, MD -3.27, 95% CI -5.91 to -0.63; two RCTs, N = 100, certainty of evidence: very low). Treatment with topical capsaicin compared with placebo may result in a large reduction of pruritus (two studies; 112 participants): SMD -1.06, 95% CI -1.55 to -0.57; certainty of evidence: low. Ondansetron, zinc sulphate and several other treatments may not reduce pruritus in participants suffering from UP. In participants with cholestatic pruritus (CP), treatment with rifampicin compared to placebo may reduce pruritus, but the evidence is very uncertain (VAS: 0 to 100, MD -42.00, 95% CI -87.31 to 3.31; two RCTs, N = 42, certainty of evidence: very low). Treatment with flumecinol compared to placebo may reduce pruritus, but the evidence is very uncertain (RR > 1 favours treatment group; RR 2.32, 95% CI 0.54 to 10.1; two RCTs, N = 69, certainty of evidence: very low). Treatment with the opioid antagonist naltrexone compared to placebo may reduce pruritus (VAS: 0 to 10 cm, MD -2.42, 95% CI -3.90 to -0.94; two RCTs, N = 52, certainty of evidence: low). However, effects in participants with UP were inconclusive (percentage of difference -12.30%, 95% CI -25.82% to 1.22%, one RCT, N = 32). In palliative care participants with pruritus of a different nature, the treatment with the drug paroxetine (one study), a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, compared to placebo may reduce pruritus slightly by 0.78 (numerical analogue scale from 0 to 10 points; 95% CI -1.19 to -0.37; one RCT, N = 48, certainty of evidence: low). Most adverse events were mild or moderate. Two interventions showed multiple major adverse events (naltrexone and nalfurafine). AUTHORS CONCLUSIONS Different interventions (GABA-analogues, kappa-opioid receptor agonists, cromolyn sodium, montelukast, fish-oil/omega-3 fatty acids and topical capsaicin compared to placebo) were effective for uraemic pruritus. GABA-analogues had the largest effect on pruritus. Rifampin, naltrexone and flumecinol tended to be effective for cholestatic pruritus. However, therapies for patients with malignancies are still lacking. Due to the small sample sizes in most meta-analyses and the heterogeneous methodological quality of the included trials, the results should be interpreted cautiously in terms of generalisability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Joos
- Department of Palliative Care, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bettina Coune
- Department of Palliative Care, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Carola Becker
- Department of Palliative Care, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Joerg J Meerpohl
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Cochrane Germany, Cochrane Germany Foundation, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Buroh
- Library of the Center of Surgery, University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Hercz
- Jackson Memorial Hospital / University of Miami, Miami, USA
| | - Guido Schwarzer
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gerhild Becker
- Department of Palliative Care, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Ileal Bile Acid Transporter Blockers for Cholestatic Liver Disease in Pediatric Patients with Alagille Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11247526. [PMID: 36556142 PMCID: PMC9784790 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11247526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alagille syndrome (ALGS) is a rare, debilitating inheritable disease that is associated with refractory pruritus due to chronic cholestasis. The following systemic review and meta-analysis presents the latest evidence for ileal bile acid transport (IBAT) blockers in AGLS patients in order to improve their efficacy. This study adhered to PRISMA 2020 Statement guidelines. A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane library was conducted from inception until 23 October 2022. A combination of the following keywords was used: Alagille syndrome, therapeutics, treatment, therapy. Meta-analytical outcomes included effect directions of end-line changes in serum bile acids (sBAs), Itch Scale scores (ItchRO), Multidimensional Fatigue Scale scores, pediatric quality of life (QL), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and total bilirubin. A total of 94 patients across four trials were enrolled and received maralixibat, odevixibat, or a placebo. There was a significant reduction in ItchRO scores by 1.8 points, as well as in sBAs by 75.8 μmol/L. Both the Multidimensional Fatigue Scale and Pediatric QL scale were also improved by 11.4 and 8.3 points, respectively. However, ALT levels were raised by 40 U/L. The efficacy of IBAT inhibitors across current trials was noted. Future trials may focus on the optimization of dosing regimens, considering gastrointestinal side effects and drug-induced ALT elevation in AGLS patients.
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The potential action of SSRIs in the treatment of skin diseases including atopic dermatitis and slow-healing wounds. Pharmacol Rep 2022; 74:947-955. [PMID: 36203121 PMCID: PMC9584846 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-022-00423-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used to treat affective and anxiety disorders. Antidepressants have also been shown to have antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects, which may affect the microbiota-intestinal-brain axis. Studies show that SSRIs have antimicrobial activity both in vivo and in vitro and influence bacteria by inhibiting biofilm, affecting efflux pumps, among others. A huge challenge today is the prevention and treatment of skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis (AD) and slow-healing wounds. Skin diseases including AD and non-healing wounds are serious medical problem. People suffering from these conditions feel constant discomfort, which also affects their psychological state. Research on new treatments for AD and slow-healing wounds is essential because current medications are not fully effective and have many side effects. Exploring new drug groups for AD and slow-healing wounds will allow for the creation of an alternative treatment for these diseases. SSRIs represent a hope for the treatment of skin diseases due to their immunomodulatory and antimicrobial properties.
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Patel P, Patel K, Pandher K, Tareen RS. The Role of Psychiatric, Analgesic, and Antiepileptic Medications in Chronic Pruritus. Cureus 2021; 13:e17260. [PMID: 34522555 PMCID: PMC8425105 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.17260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pruritus is a complex yet prevalent concern without a gold standard treatment. The mainstay therapy for chronic pruritus includes topical ointments such as corticosteroids, capsaicin, local anesthetics, antihistamines, and immunomodulators. There are many different subtypes of chronic pruritus, and each unique subtype may benefit from specialized treatments. This review article sheds light on the role of psychiatric, analgesic, and antiepileptic medications in chronic pruritus. We believe that further large-scale studies are needed to determine the true effectiveness of these medications in treating chronic pruritus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parth Patel
- Dermatology, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, San Diego, USA
| | - Keshav Patel
- Internal Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Kalamazoo, USA
| | - Karan Pandher
- Dermatology, Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, USA
| | - Ruqiya Shama Tareen
- Psychiatry, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, USA
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Husein-ElAhmed H, Steinhoff M. Effectiveness of ustekinumab in patients with atopic dermatitis: analysis of real-world evidence. J DERMATOL TREAT 2021; 33:1838-1843. [PMID: 33849369 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2021.1914315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a very common chronic inflammatory skin disease. Ustekinumab is a human monoclonal antibody approved for psoriasis, that targets the p40 subunit shared by interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, cytokines which may also play a role in AD. Administration of ustekinumab in AD has been presented in anecdotal reports with conflicting results. Our aim was to evaluate the precise value of this biologic drug on AD in real-world setting. MATERIAL AND METHOD We sistematically reviewed published data and analyzed aggregated results involving AD treated with ustekinumab. The main outcome was clinical improvement reported by each record. We classified this in three categories: "complete response", "partial response" and "no response". A multivariant model was used to assess association between response to ustekinumab and the following potential predictive factors: gender, age (age < or >50), duration of AD, history of asthma, previous use of biologic drugs, number of previous systemic therapies, serum levels of IgE and duration of ustekinumab therapy. RESULTS Data on 23 patients from eight articles were analyzed. Complete AD remission was reported in 8 patients (34.8%), while abscense of response was observed also in 8 patients (34.8%). Partial response was reported in 7 patients (30.4%). No differences were observed with respect to age, gender, history of asthma, naïve patient, duration of AD or duration of ustekinumab therapy. CONCLUSION We conclude from available data the IL-12/23 pathway is likely not an atractive target for AD. More no convincing data exist arguing against consideration of ustekinumab in AD patients. Other effective treatments are available and should be prioritized with good safety profile. Limitations are yet low number of studies and patients.WHAT'S ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS TOPIC?Administration of ustekinumab in AD (atopic dermatitis) has been presented in anecdotical reports with conflicting resultsWHAT DOES THIS STUDY ADD?This work presents the largest cohort of AD patients treated with ustekinumab in a real-world setting.Ustekinumab resulted in similar rates of complete, partial and negative responses.Our findings demonstrate the IL-12/23 pathway is not an atractive target in AD.More novel and effective treatments for AD are available and should be prioritized.The impact of anti IL-12/IL-23p40 therapy in AD is still unclarified due to limited controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Husein Husein-ElAhmed
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Hospital de Baza, Granada, Spain.,Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,College of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar.,Medical School, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Dept. of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Sreekantaswamy SA, Mollanazar N, Butler DC. Gabapentinoids for Pruritus in Older Adults: A Narrative Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2021; 11:669-679. [PMID: 33721214 PMCID: PMC8163906 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-021-00513-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
There is currently no standardized algorithm for the treatment of chronic pruritus (CP), or itch lasting more than 6 weeks, in adults aged ≥ 65 years. The antiepileptic agents gabapentin and pregabalin, however, are gaining popularity in the dermatologic community for their efficacy in treating CP of neuropathic origin. Yet the lack of literature specifically looking at the safety and efficacy of these medications in older adults results in limited guidance for providers in the safe use of gabapentinoids. In this paper we discuss special considerations and recommendations for treating older adults with gabapentin and pregabalin and explore the possibility for these drugs to ameliorate CP of multiple etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya A Sreekantaswamy
- San Francisco Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Nicholas Mollanazar
- Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel C Butler
- San Francisco Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Krajewski PK, Olczyk P, Krajewska M, Krajewski W, Szepietowski JC. Clinical Characteristics of Itch in Renal Transplant Recipients. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 7:615334. [PMID: 33553209 PMCID: PMC7854568 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.615334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic itch is the most common symptom in dermatology. End-stage renal disease-associated chronic itch (ESRDCI) is a common burden affecting up to 35% of patients treated with hemodialysis. Kidney transplant (KTx) is believed to be the best renal replacement therapy leading to the elimination of ESRDCI. The study was undertaken to characterize and assess the prevalence of itch among patients after renal transplantation. Methods: Between October 2019 and January 2020, we analyzed the data of 197 patients comprising 121 males (61.4%) and 76 females (38.6%) and aged 54.5 ± 13.6 years. The data collection was performed with a specially designed questionnaire. Level of itch after renal transplantation was assessed with the use of a Numeral Rating Scale, a Visual Rating Scale, and 4-Item Itch Questionnaire. Moreover, the previous 3 days of itching were evaluated. Results: The patients suffered from chronic renal disease for 20.2 ± 12.3 years, with a mean time of pre-transplant dialysis of 2.6 ± 2.4 years and a mean time after the KTx of 8.0 ± 6.5 years. The itch was present in 38.6% of the patients during the hemodialysis, and in 73.7% of cases, the itch ceased completely after the successful transplantation. Moreover, only 2.63% of the cases had no improvement. Nevertheless, the itch was reported in 42 (21.3%) renal transplant recipients (RTR), and in 22 (52.4%) cases, the itch appeared after transplantation. The majority of patients suffering from itch were women (54.8%). Itch in the last 3 days was reported in 21 patients. The itch's severity was assessed with a numerical rating scale (NRS), with the worst severity measured at 6 ± 2.2 points indicating moderate itch. In most cases (57.1%), itch affected multiple body areas. Extremities (50%) and the back (50%) were among the most frequently affected areas. The sensation had a mostly short duration and was most frequently reported in the evening. Only eight patients suffered for the whole day. Hot water was the most frequently reported (16.7%) alleviating factor, whilst sweat was responsible for itch aggravation in 35.9% of cases. Conclusion: Our analysis on representative patients' population indicates that itch after KTx is an important problem. Moreover, it is worth noting that more than half of the RTR did not suffer from itch during dialysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr K Krajewski
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Olczyk
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Krajewska
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Wojciech Krajewski
- Department of Urology and Oncologic Urology, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Jacek C Szepietowski
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
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Zhang Y, Tan Y, Zou Y, Bulat V, Lugovic Mihic L, Kovacevic M, Lotti T, Verner I, Stanimirovic A, Situm M, Goldust M, Liu W, Vojvodic A, Goren A. Yeast extract demonstrates rapid itch relief in chronic pruritus. J Cosmet Dermatol 2020; 19:2131-2134. [PMID: 31922345 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.13265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yiyi Zhang
- Department of Skin & Cosmetic Research Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital Shanghai China
| | - Yimei Tan
- Department of Skin & Cosmetic Research Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital Shanghai China
- Human Phenome Institute Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Ying Zou
- Department of Skin & Cosmetic Research Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital Shanghai China
| | - Vedrana Bulat
- Department of Dermatovenereology Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Centre Zagreb Croatia
| | - Liborijia Lugovic Mihic
- Department of Dermatovenereology Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Centre Zagreb Croatia
| | - Maja Kovacevic
- Department of Dermatovenereology Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Centre Zagreb Croatia
| | - Torello Lotti
- Centro Studi per la Ricerca Multidisciplinare e Rigenerativa Universita Degli Studi "G. Marconi" Rome Italy
| | - Ines Verner
- Verner Clinic for Dermatology and Aesthetics Tel Aviv Israel
| | - Andrija Stanimirovic
- Department of Clinical Medicine University of Applied Health Sciences Zagreb Croatia
- School of Medicine European University Cyprus Nicosia Cyprus
| | - Mirna Situm
- Department of Dermatovenereology Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Centre Zagreb Croatia
| | - Mohamad Goldust
- Department of Dermatology University of Rome Guglielmo Marconi Rome Italy
- University Medical Center Mainz Mainz Germany
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Skin & Cosmetic Research Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital Shanghai China
- Department of Dermatology Air Force General Hospital Beijing China
| | - Aleksandra Vojvodic
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology Military Medical Academy of Belgrade Belgrade Serbia
| | - Andy Goren
- Department of Dermatology Hairmore Hospital Beijing Beijing China
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Huang AH, Kaffenberger BH, Reich A, Szepietowski JC, Ständer S, Kwatra SG. Pruritus Associated with Commonly Prescribed Medications in a Tertiary Care Center. MEDICINES 2019; 6:medicines6030084. [PMID: 31382689 PMCID: PMC6789849 DOI: 10.3390/medicines6030084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Sparse data are available on rates of drug-induced pruritus, a well-recognized adverse reaction. We sought to assess relative rates of pruritus associated with commonly prescribed medications. Methods: Using the electronic medical record system EPIC, retrospective data were collected on patients seen at Johns Hopkins who received a medication of interest in a five-year period (2013–2018). Sequential criteria were used to identify the subpopulation who presented with a chief complaint of “pruritus” or diagnosis of “itching” within three months of receiving drugs. Results: We identified 9802 patients with pruritus after drug initiation and 1,085,404 patients without. A higher proportion of those with pruritus were female (70%) than those without (58%), p < 0.001. Patients in both groups were most commonly 50 to 79 years old. A higher proportion of patients with pruritus were black (40%) compared to those without (23%), p < 0.001. In this study, the highest rates of pruritus were observed with heparin (1.11%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (1.06%), and calcium channel blockers (0.92%). Psychiatric/neurologic drugs used to treat pruritus were associated with low rates of itch. Conclusions: Certain cardiovascular and antimicrobial agents are associated with increased frequencies of pruritus. This knowledge may guide providers in clinical selection of commonly used agents to minimize adverse effects associated with reduced compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy H Huang
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, 21205 MD, USA
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21205 MD, USA
| | - Benjamin H Kaffenberger
- Division of Dermatology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, 43210 OH, USA
| | - Adam Reich
- Department of Dermatology, University of Rzeszow, 35-310 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Jacek C Szepietowski
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University of Medicine, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Sonja Ständer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Shawn G Kwatra
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, 21205 MD, USA.
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21205 MD, USA.
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Liu BW, Li ZX, He ZG, Wang Q, Liu C, Zhang XW, Yang H, Xiang HB. Altered expression of itch‑related mediators in the lower cervical spinal cord in mouse models of two types of chronic itch. Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:835-846. [PMID: 31257468 PMCID: PMC6657970 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we focused on several itch-related molecules and receptors in the spinal cord with the goal of clarifying the specific mediators that regulate itch sensation. We investigated the involvement of serotonin receptors, opioid receptors, glia cell markers and chemokines (ligands and receptors) in models of acetone/ether/water (AEW)- and diphenylcyclopropenone (DCP)-induced chronic itch. Using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we examined the expression profiles of these mediators in the lower cervical spinal cord (C5-8) of two models of chronic itch. We found that the gene expression levels of opioid receptor mu 1 (Oprm1), 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A (Htr1a) and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 6 (Htr6) were upregulated. Among the chemokines, the expression levels of C-C motif chemokine ligand (Ccl)21, Cxcl3 and Cxcl16 and their receptors, Ccr7, Cxcr2 and Cxcr6, were simultaneously upregulated in the spinal cords of the mice in both models of chronic itch. By contrast, the expression levels of Ccl2, Ccl3, Ccl4 and Ccl22 were downregulated. These findings indicate that multiple mediators, such as chemokines in the spinal cord, are altered and may be central candidates in further research into the mechanisms involved in the development of chronic itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Wen Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Xiao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Gang He
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Xian-Wei Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Bing Xiang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
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Steinhoff M, Schmelz M, Szabó IL, Oaklander AL. Clinical presentation, management, and pathophysiology of neuropathic itch. Lancet Neurol 2018; 17:709-720. [PMID: 30033061 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(18)30217-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Unlike conventional itch, neuropathic itch develops in normal skin from excess peripheral firing or dampened central inhibition of itch pathway neurons. Neuropathic itch is a symptom of the same central and peripheral nervous system disorders that cause neuropathic pain, such as sensory polyneuropathy, radiculopathy, herpes zoster, stroke, or multiple sclerosis, and lesion location affects symptoms more than aetiology. The causes of neuropathic itch are heterogeneous, and thus diagnosis is based primarily on recognising characteristic, disease-specific clinical presentations. However, the diagnosis of neuropathic itch is challenging, different subforms exist (eg, focal vs widespread, peripheral vs central), and the mechanisms of neuropathic itch are poorly understood, resulting in reduced treatment availability. Currently available strategies include treating or preventing causal diseases, such as diabetes or herpes zoster, and topical or systemic medications that calm excess neuronal firing. Discovery of itch mediators such as gastrin releasing peptide, receptors (eg, neurokinin-1), and pathways (eg, Janus kinases) might encourage much needed new research into targeted treatments of neuropathic itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Steinhoff
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; HMC Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Medical School, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Martin Schmelz
- Department of Experimental Pain Research, CBTM Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Imre Lőrinc Szabó
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neuropathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Abstract
Chronic itching can be frustrating for patients and providers, and patients are not always willing to accept that their psychiatric health has an impact on their skin. Psychogenic pruritus is defined as itch not related to dermatologic or systemic causes. When a patient presents with pruritus, regardless of the presumed cause, the standard work-up should include a thorough history, dermatologic examination, and laboratory examinations or biopsies as needed. If no medical source is found, the provider must work in partnership with the patient to explore other causes and that may include acknowledging and treating underlying psychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Buteau
- Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, 601 East 15th Street, CEC C2.470, Austin, TX 78701, USA
| | - Jason Reichenberg
- Dermatology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, 601 East 15th Street, CEC C2.470, Austin, TX 78701, USA.
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Abstract
Pruritus in autoimmune connective tissue diseases is a common symptom that can be severe and affect the quality of life of patients. It can be related to disease activity and severity or occur independent of the disease. Appropriate therapy to control the itch depends on the etiology, and it is therefore essential to first work-up these patients for the underlying trigger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon P Smith
- Department of Dermatology, Connective Tissue Diseases Clinic, MGH, Bartlett Hall 622, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yahya Argobi
- Department of Dermatology, King Khalid University, College of Medicine, PO Box 641, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia.
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Méhul B, Laffet G, Séraïdaris A, Russo L, Fogel P, Carlavan I, Pernin C, Andres P, Queille-Roussel C, Voegel J. Noninvasive proteome analysis of psoriatic stratum corneum reflects pathophysiological pathways and is useful for drug profiling. Br J Dermatol 2017; 177:470-488. [DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B. Méhul
- Galderma R&D; 2400 route des colles 06410 Biot France
| | - G. Laffet
- Galderma R&D; 2400 route des colles 06410 Biot France
| | - A. Séraïdaris
- Galderma R&D; 2400 route des colles 06410 Biot France
| | - L. Russo
- Galderma R&D; 2400 route des colles 06410 Biot France
| | - P. Fogel
- 132 rue d'Assas 75006 Paris France
| | - I. Carlavan
- Galderma R&D; 2400 route des colles 06410 Biot France
| | - C. Pernin
- Galderma R&D; 2400 route des colles 06410 Biot France
| | - P. Andres
- Galderma R&D; 2400 route des colles 06410 Biot France
| | - C. Queille-Roussel
- Centre de Pharmacologie Clinique Appliquée à la Dermatologie (CPCAD); University Hospital of Nice; 5 rue Pierre Devoluy 06000 Nice France
| | - J.J. Voegel
- Galderma R&D; 2400 route des colles 06410 Biot France
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Synergistic antipruritic effects of gamma aminobutyric acid A and B agonists in a mouse model of atopic dermatitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2017; 140:454-464.e2. [PMID: 28232084 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Revised: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite recent insights into the pathophysiology of acute and chronic itch, chronic itch remains an often intractable condition. Among major contributors to chronic itch is dysfunction of spinal cord gamma aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) inhibitory controls. OBJECTIVES We sought to test the hypothesis that selective GABA agonists as well as cell transplant-derived GABA are antipruritic against acute itch and in a transgenic mouse model of atopic dermatitis produced by overexpression of the TH2 cell-associated cytokine, IL-31 (IL-31Tg mice). METHODS We injected wild-type and IL-31Tg mice with combinations of GABA-A (muscimol) or GABA-B (baclofen) receptor agonists 15 to 20 minutes prior to injection of various pruritogens (histamine, chloroquine, or endothelin-1) and recorded spontaneous scratching before and after drug administration. We also tested the antipruritic properties of intraspinal transplantation of precursors of GABAergic interneurons in the IL-31Tg mice. RESULTS Systemic muscimol or baclofen are antipruritic against both histamine-dependent and -independent pruritogens, but the therapeutic window using either ligand alone was very small. In contrast, combined subthreshold doses of baclofen and muscimol produced a significant synergistic antipruritic effect, with no sedation. Finally, transplant-mediated long-term enhancement of GABAergic signaling not only reduced spontaneous scratching in the IL-31Tg mice but also dramatically resolved the associated skin lesions. CONCLUSIONS Although additional research is clearly needed, existing approved GABA agonists should be considered in the management of chronic itch, notably atopic dermatitis.
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Atopic Dermatitis: Managing the Itch. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1027:161-177. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-64804-0_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Sheu SL, Wang KC. Pruritus and Dermatitis in the Elderly. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s13670-016-0189-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Siemens W, Xander C, Meerpohl JJ, Buroh S, Antes G, Schwarzer G, Becker G. Pharmacological interventions for pruritus in adult palliative care patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 11:CD008320. [PMID: 27849111 PMCID: PMC6734122 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd008320.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This is an update of the original Cochrane review published in 2013 (Issue 6). Pruritus occurs in patients with disparate underlying diseases and is caused by different pathologic mechanisms. In palliative care patients, pruritus is not the most prevalent but is one of the most puzzling symptoms. It can cause considerable discomfort and affects patients' quality of life. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of different pharmacological treatments for preventing or treating pruritus in adult palliative care patients. SEARCH METHODS For this update, we searched CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library), and MEDLINE (OVID) up to 9 June 2016 and Embase (OVID) up to 7 June 2016. In addition, we searched trial registries and checked the reference lists of all relevant studies, key textbooks, reviews and websites, and we contacted investigators and specialists in pruritus and palliative care regarding unpublished data. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of different pharmacological treatments, compared with a placebo, no treatment, or an alternative treatment, for preventing or treating pruritus in palliative care patients. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed the identified titles and abstracts, performed data extraction and assessed the risk of bias and methodological quality. We summarised the results descriptively and quantitatively (meta-analyses) according to the different pharmacological interventions and the diseases associated with pruritus. We assessed the evidence using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) and created 10 'Summary of findings' tables. MAIN RESULTS In total, we included 50 studies and 1916 participants in the review. We added 10 studies with 627 participants for this update. Altogether, we included 39 different treatments for pruritus in four different patient groups.The overall risk of bias profile was heterogeneous and ranged from high to low risk. However, 48 studies (96%) had a high risk of bias due to low sample size (i.e. fewer than 50 participants per treatment arm). Using GRADE criteria, we downgraded our judgement on the quality of evidence to moderate in seven and to low in three comparisons for our primary outcome (pruritus), mainly due to imprecision and risk of bias.In palliative care participants with pruritus of different nature, the treatment with the drug paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, reduced pruritus by 0.78 points (numerical analogue scale from 0 to 10; 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.19 to -0.37; one RCT, N = 48, quality of evidence: moderate) compared to placebo.For participants suffering from uraemic pruritus (UP), gabapentin was more effective than placebo (visual analogue scale (VAS): 0 to 10), mean difference (MD) -5.91, 95% CI -6.87 to -4.96; two RCTs, N = 118, quality of evidence: moderate). The κ-opioid receptor agonist nalfurafine showed amelioration of UP (VAS 0 to 10, MD -0.95, 95% CI -1.32 to -0.58; three RCTs, N = 422, quality of evidence: moderate) and only few adverse events. Moreover, cromolyn sodium relieved UP participants from pruritus by 2.94 points on the VAS (0 to 10) (95% CI -4.04 to -1.83; two RCTs, N = 100, quality of evidence: moderate) compared to placebo.In participants with cholestatic pruritus (CP), data favoured rifampin (VAS: 0 to 100, MD -24.64, 95% CI -31.08 to -18.21; two RCTs, N = 42, quality of evidence: low) and flumecinol (RR > 1 favours treatment group; RR 1.89, 95% CI 1.05 to 3.39; two RCTs, N = 69, quality of evidence: low) and showed a low incidence of adverse events in comparison with placebo. The opioid antagonist naltrexone reduced pruritus for participants with CP (VAS: 0 to 10, MD -2.26, 95% CI -3.19 to -1.33; two RCTs, N = 52, quality of evidence: moderate) compared to placebo. However, effects in participants with UP were inconclusive (percentage difference -12.30%, 95% CI -25.82% to 1.22%, one RCT, N = 32). Furthermore, large doses of opioid antagonists (e.g. naltrexone) could be inappropriate in palliative care patients because of the risk of reducing analgesia.For participants with HIV-associated pruritus, it is uncertain whether drug treatment with hydroxyzine hydrochloride, pentoxifylline, triamcinolone or indomethacin reduces pruritus because the evidence was of very low quality (e.g. small sample size, lack of blinding). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Different interventions tended to be effective for CP and UP. However, therapies for patients with malignancies are still lacking. Due to the small sample sizes in most meta-analyses and the heterogeneous methodological quality of the included trials, the results should be interpreted cautiously in terms of generalisability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waldemar Siemens
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, GermanyClinic for Palliative Care, Medical Center ‐ University of FreiburgRobert‐Koch‐Straße 3FreiburgGermany
| | - Carola Xander
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, GermanyClinic for Palliative Care, Medical Center ‐ University of FreiburgRobert‐Koch‐Straße 3FreiburgGermany
| | - Joerg J Meerpohl
- Medical Center ‐ University of FreiburgCochrane GermanyBreisacher Straße 153FreiburgGermany79110
| | - Sabine Buroh
- University Medical CenterLibrary of the Center of SurgeryHugstetterstrasse 55FreiburgBaden‐WürttembergGermany79115
| | - Gerd Antes
- Medical Center ‐ University of FreiburgCochrane GermanyBreisacher Straße 153FreiburgGermany79110
| | - Guido Schwarzer
- Medical Center ‐ University of FreiburgCenter for Medical Biometry and Medical InformaticsStefan‐Meier‐Str. 26FreiburgGermanyD‐79104
| | - Gerhild Becker
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, GermanyClinic for Palliative Care, Medical Center ‐ University of FreiburgRobert‐Koch‐Straße 3FreiburgGermany
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Brazzelli V, Grassi S, Merante S, Grasso V, Ciccocioppo R, Bossi G, Borroni G. Narrow-band UVB phototherapy and psoralen-ultraviolet A photochemotherapy in the treatment of cutaneous mastocytosis: a study in 20 patients. PHOTODERMATOLOGY PHOTOIMMUNOLOGY & PHOTOMEDICINE 2016; 32:238-246. [PMID: 27353865 DOI: 10.1111/phpp.12248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In mastocytosis, the skin is almost invariably involved, and cutaneous symptoms deeply affect patients' quality of life. METHODS A retrospective observational analysis of patients affected by cutaneous mastocytosis (CM) and indolent systemic mastocytosis (ISM) treated with phototherapy/photochemotherapy (PUVA or NB-UVB) has been conducted. For each patient, total numbers of PUVA or NB-UVB exposures, the cumulative UV dose (J/cm2 ), serum tryptase profile, and pruritus, before and after treatment, according to the visual analogue scale (VAS) were considered. Skin lesions of each patient were assessed, before and after treatment, according to a cutaneous scale score. RESULTS Twenty patients affected by CM and ISM were studied; in particular, 10 patients received NB-UVB therapy, and other 10 patients received PUVA. A statistically significant mean reduction of pruritus in both groups (P < 0.01) was observed. The number of treatments necessary to obtain symptom relief was significantly lower in the PUVA group, but the mean exposure dose was significantly higher, if compared to the NB-UVB group. Serum tryptase levels showed a downward trend. The cutaneous score improved in both groups. LIMITATIONS This study was a retrospective study with a small sample size and without a control group. CONCLUSION This work provides evidence that both NB-UVB and PUVA represent a safe and useful second-line therapy of the cutaneous symptoms in mastocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Brazzelli
- Institute of Dermatology, Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Science, IRCCS Foundation Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Grassi
- Institute of Dermatology, Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Science, IRCCS Foundation Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Serena Merante
- Department of Haematology, IRCCS Foundation Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Grasso
- Institute of Dermatology, Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Science, IRCCS Foundation Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Rachele Ciccocioppo
- First Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Foundation Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Grazia Bossi
- Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS Foundation Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Borroni
- Institute of Dermatology, Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Science, IRCCS Foundation Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Zanardelli M, Kovacevic M, McCoy J, Wang X, Goren A, Lotti T. Management of chronic pruritus with a UV filtering topical cream. Dermatol Ther 2016; 29:101-3. [PMID: 26849280 DOI: 10.1111/dth.12309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pruritus is a common dermatological condition affecting 10-13% of the general population. UVB phototherapy has been demonstrated to be effective in relieving the symptoms of pruritus. However, phototherapy is rarely administered because the treatment is time-consuming and expensive, when compared to other topical drugs. In previous works, it has been reported that a topical cream, which selectively filters solar UVB can be used as a convenient alternative to traditional phototherapy. Here, we report the results of a pilot study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of the cream for treating pruritus. Seven patients with pruritus symptoms were included in the study. After 3 months of treatment (3 sessions per week), all patients noted improvement in pruritus symptoms. These preliminary results demonstrate that the novel topical cream could provide a convenient, low cost treatment for chronic pruritus patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Zanardelli
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Rome "G.Marconi", Rome, Italy
| | - Maja Kovacevic
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Rome "G.Marconi", Rome, Italy
| | - John McCoy
- Applied Biology, Irvine, California, USA
| | | | - Andy Goren
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Rome "G.Marconi", Rome, Italy.,Applied Biology, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Torello Lotti
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Rome "G.Marconi", Rome, Italy
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GABAA Receptors in the Central Nucleus of the Amygdala Are Involved in Pain- and Itch-Related Responses. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2016; 17:181-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2015.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2015] [Revised: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Maley A, Swerlick RA. Azathioprine treatment of intractable pruritus: A retrospective review. J Am Acad Dermatol 2015; 73:439-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2015.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Carvalho S, Sanches M, Alves R, Selores M. Brachioradial pruritus in a patient with cervical disc herniation and Parsonage-Turner syndrome. An Bras Dermatol 2015; 90:401-2. [PMID: 26131874 PMCID: PMC4516110 DOI: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20153059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Brachioradial pruritus is a chronic sensory neuropathy of unknown etiology which
affects the skin of the shoulders, arms and forearms on the insertion of the
brachioradialis muscle. We describe the case of a 60-yearold woman recently diagnosed
with multiple myeloma who refers paresis, severe pruritus and itching lesions on the
right arm with 6 months of evolution. Investigation led to a diagnosis of
Brachioradial pruritus consequent to the presence of cervical disc herniation and
Parsonage-Turner syndrome. The patient started gabapentin 900mg/day with good control
of itching. Corticosteroids and antihistamines are often ineffective in the treatment
of BP. Gabapentin has been used with encouraging results. All patients with
Brachioradial pruritus should be evaluated for cervical spine injuries.
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26
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Ahmed H, Blakeway EA, Taylor RE, Bewley AP. Children with a mother with delusional infestation--implications for child protection and management. Pediatr Dermatol 2015; 32:397-400. [PMID: 25641024 DOI: 10.1111/pde.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Delusional infestation (DI) is a reportedly uncommon psychocutaneous condition in which an individual holds a fixed, false belief of pathogenic infestation of the skin or body contrary to medical evidence. There are reports of such a delusion being shared with family members or close friends (folie a deux/famillie), but the implications of DI induced in children have not been discussed. We describe the case of a mother with DI whose children subsequently shared her belief. Implications for child protection and management are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hera Ahmed
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Centre for Psychiatry, Charterhouse Square, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth A Blakeway
- Department of Dermatology, Whipps Cross Hospital, Barts Health National Health Service Trust, Leytonstone, London, UK
| | | | - Anthony P Bewley
- Department of Dermatology, Whipps Cross Hospital, Barts Health National Health Service Trust, Leytonstone, London, UK
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Abstract
Itch is a common distressing symptom which may be caused by multifactorial aetiologies including inflammatory skin diseases, systemic diseases, neuropathic conditions and psychogenic disorders. Itch is a term used synonymously with pruritus and is defined as acute if it lasts less than 6 weeks or chronic if it persists for more than 6 weeks. It can have the same impact on the quality of life as chronic pain and shares many of the same pathophysiological pathways. Depending on the aetiology of the itch, different pathogenic mechanisms have been postulated with a number of mediators identified. These include histamine, leukotrienes, proteases, neuropeptides, cytokines and opioids, which may activate peripheral itch-mediating C-fibres via receptors on the nerve terminals and central neuronal pathways. Therefore, there is no single universally effective anti-itch treatment available. First-line treatments for itch include topical therapies, such as emollients, mild cleansers (low pH), topical anaesthetics, steroids, calcineurin inhibitors and coolants (menthol). Treatment with systemic therapies can vary according to the aetiology of the chronic itch. Non-sedating antihistamines are helpful in conditions such as urticaria where the itch is primarily histamine mediated. Although the itch of eczema is not mediated by histamine, sedating antihistamines at night are helpful to break the itch-scratch cycle. Chronic itch may also be treated with other systemic therapies, such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants as well as mu-opioid antagonists, kappa-opioid agonists and phototherapy, depending on the cause of the itch. This article summarises the topical and systemic therapies available with our current understanding of the pathophysiology of itch.
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28
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Fett N, Haynes K, Propert KJ, Margolis DJ. Five-year malignancy incidence in patients with chronic pruritus: a population-based cohort study aimed at limiting unnecessary screening practices. J Am Acad Dermatol 2014; 70:651-658. [PMID: 24485529 PMCID: PMC3959616 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2013.11.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Revised: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of malignancy in patients with chronic pruritus and nondiseased skin is unknown. OBJECTIVE We sought to assess the hazard ratio (HR) of incident overall malignancy and incident malignancy by subtype in patients with chronic pruritus during the 5 years after diagnosis. METHODS A population-based cohort study was performed in the Health Improvement Network. In all, 8744 patients with chronic pruritus were matched with 31,580 patients without chronic pruritus based on sex, age, and practice. Primary outcomes were HR of incident malignancy and HR of malignancy subtypes. RESULTS The fully adjusted HR for incident malignancy in patients with chronic pruritus was 1.14 (95% confidence interval 0.98-1.33). The fully adjusted HR for incident hematologic malignancy and incident bile duct malignancy in patients with chronic pruritus was 2.02 (95% confidence interval 1.48-2.75) and 3.73 (95% confidence interval 1.55-8.97), respectively. The incidence of hematologic malignancy and cholangiocarcinoma in patients with chronic pruritus was 0.0016 and 0.0003 per person-year, respectively. LIMITATIONS Potential for misclassification and detection biases is a limitation. CONCLUSIONS Chronic pruritus without concomitant skin changes is a risk factor for having undiagnosed hematologic and bile duct malignancies, but not other malignancies. The overall incidence of these malignancies in patients with chronic pruritus is very low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Fett
- Philadelphia Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
| | - Kevin Haynes
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Center for Pharmacoepidermiology Research and Training, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kathleen Joy Propert
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Center for Pharmacoepidermiology Research and Training, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - David J Margolis
- Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Abstract
Chemicals that are used experimentally to evoke itch elicit activity in diverse subpopulations of cutaneous pruriceptive neurons, all of which also respond to painful stimuli. However, itch is distinct from pain: it evokes different behaviours, such as scratching, and originates from the skin or certain mucosae but not from muscle, joints or viscera. New insights regarding the neurons that mediate the sensation of itch have been gained from experiments in which gene expression has been manipulated in different types of pruriceptive neurons as well as from comparisons between psychophysical measurements of itch and the neuronal discharges and other properties of peripheral and central pruriceptive neurons.
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Abstract
While considerable effort has been made to investigate the neural mechanisms of pain, much less effort has been devoted to itch, at least until recently. However, itch is now gaining increasing recognition as a widespread and costly medical and socioeconomic issue. This is accompanied by increasing interest in the underlying neural mechanisms of itch, which has become a vibrant and rapidly-advancing field of research. The goal of the present forefront review is to describe the recent progress that has been made in our understanding of itch mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasuku Akiyama
- University of California, Davis, Department of Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, United States
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31
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Xander C, Meerpohl JJ, Galandi D, Buroh S, Schwarzer G, Antes G, Becker G. Pharmacological interventions for pruritus in adult palliative care patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013:CD008320. [PMID: 23749733 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd008320.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pruritus is not the most prevalent but one of the most puzzling symptoms in palliative care patients. It can cause considerable discomfort and has a major impact on patients' quality of life. In the field of palliative care, pruritus is a symptom occurring in patients with disparate underlying diseases and based on different pathologic mechanisms but ending in the same phenomenon. The pathogenesis of pruritus is complex and not fully elucidated. Thus, it is still very difficult to treat pruritus effectively. Evidence-based treatment approaches are needed. OBJECTIVES The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of different pharmacological treatments for preventing or treating pruritus in adult palliative care patients. SEARCH METHODS A systematic literature search up to January 2012 was performed and it was updated in August 2012. The following databases were searched: The Cochrane Library (CENTRAL, DARE, CDSR) (2012, issue 8 of 12); MEDLINE (1950 to August 2012); EMBASE (1980 to August 2012) and three other databases. In addition, we searched trials registries and checked the reference lists of all relevant studies, key textbooks, reviews, and websites, and contacted investigators and specialists in pruritus and palliative care regarding unpublished data. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials assessing the effects of different pharmacological treatments on preventing or treating pruritus in palliative care patients. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed identified titles and abstracts. Three independent review authors performed assessment of all potentially relevant studies, data extraction, assessment of risk of bias and methodological quality. Results were summarised descriptively according to the different pharmacological interventions and the type of underlying pruritus. Where possible, results were presented in meta-analyses. MAIN RESULTS In total, 38 reports comprising 40 studies and 1286 participants were included in the review. Altogether, 30 different treatments for pruritus in four different patient groups were included.The findings of this review indicated that the treatment of pruritus for palliative care patients is challenging and requires an individualistic approach. Results showed that effective therapeutic choices have to be guided by the pathophysiology of the pruritus. Various forms of pruritus occur, especially in the field of palliative care, and sometimes the origin of the pruritus is difficult to determine. Therefore, identifying the underlying cause of pruritus is of prime importance in order to develop tailored treatment plans, even if in palliative care the treatment is focused towards the symptom and not necessarily the underlying disease.Results show that in palliative care patients with pruritus of different natures, treatment with the drug paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, may be beneficial. For patients suffering from pruritus associated with HIV infection, indomethacin was described as the most effective drug, although the evidence was weak. For patients suffering from chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus, gabapentin may be an option. An alternative treatment for this patient group seems to be the κ-opioid receptor agonist nalfurafine, which has shown significant amelioration of pruritus and acceptable adverse effects. As they have exhibited a low incidence of adverse effects, rifampicin and flumecinol may be recommended for patients with cholestatic pruritus. The opioid antagonist naltrexone has been shown to offer a therapeutic alternative for patients suffering from uraemic or cholestatic pruritus. However, these drugs are often inappropriate in the palliative population because of the risk of reducing analgesia when giving high doses of naltrexone. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The findings of this review indicate that the number of systemic and topical drugs used for the different subforms of pruritus is increasing. Different interventions have been shown to be effective in the treatment of pruritus of different origins. Nevertheless, an optimal therapy for pruritus is constrained due to the limited understanding of crucial itch mediators and receptors in the various subforms of itch. Ideal antipruritic therapies are still lacking, especially for palliative care patients.This systematic review also indicates that there is insufficient evidence to give any concrete recommendations regarding treatment of pruritus in palliative care patients. Due to the very small sample sizes and poor methodological quality of the majority of studies that were included, the results of this review need to be interpreted with caution. Furthermore, the generalizability is questionable. Additional studies, and particularly carefully designed treatment trials, are needed to provide valid evidence for adequate treatment of pruritus in palliative care patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola Xander
- German Cochrane Centre, Institute of Medical Biometry and Medical Informatics, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg,Germany.
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32
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Liu T, Ji RR. New insights into the mechanisms of itch: are pain and itch controlled by distinct mechanisms? Pflugers Arch 2013; 465:1671-85. [PMID: 23636773 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-013-1284-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2012] [Revised: 04/13/2013] [Accepted: 04/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Itch and pain are closely related but distinct sensations. They share largely overlapping mediators and receptors, and itch-responding neurons are also sensitive to pain stimuli. Itch-mediating primary sensory neurons are equipped with distinct receptors and ion channels for itch transduction, including Mas-related G protein-coupled receptors (Mrgprs), protease-activated receptors, histamine receptors, bile acid receptor, toll-like receptors, and transient receptor potential subfamily V1/A1 (TRPV1/A1). Recent progress has indicated the existence of an itch-specific neuronal circuitry. The MrgprA3-expressing primary sensory neurons exclusively innervate the epidermis of skin, and their central axons connect with gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR)-expressing neurons in the superficial spinal cord. Notably, ablation of MrgprA3-expressing primary sensory neurons or GRPR-expressing spinal cord neurons results in selective reduction in itch but not pain. Chronic itch results from dysfunction of the immune and nervous system and can manifest as neural plasticity despite the fact that chronic itch is often treated by dermatologists. While differences between acute pain and acute itch are striking, chronic itch and chronic pain share many similar mechanisms, including peripheral sensitization (increased responses of primary sensory neurons to itch and pain mediators), central sensitization (hyperactivity of spinal projection neurons and excitatory interneurons), loss of inhibitory control in the spinal cord, and neuro-immune and neuro-glial interactions. Notably, painful stimuli can elicit itch in some chronic conditions (e.g., atopic dermatitis), and some drugs for treating chronic pain are also effective in chronic itch. Thus, itch and pain have more similarities in pathological and chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Liu
- Pain Signaling and Plasticity Laboratory, Department of Anesthesiology and Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, 595 LaSalle Street, GSRB-I, Room 1027A, DUMC 3094, Durham, NC, 27710, USA,
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33
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Evaluation and management of a patient with chronic pruritus. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2012; 130:1015-6.e7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2012.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2011] [Revised: 08/03/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Liu T, Berta T, Xu ZZ, Park CK, Zhang L, Lü N, Liu Q, Liu Y, Gao YJ, Liu YC, Ma Q, Dong X, Ji RR. TLR3 deficiency impairs spinal cord synaptic transmission, central sensitization, and pruritus in mice. J Clin Invest 2012; 122:2195-207. [PMID: 22565312 DOI: 10.1172/jci45414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Itch, also known as pruritus, is a common, intractable symptom of several skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and xerosis. TLRs mediate innate immunity and regulate neuropathic pain, but their roles in pruritus are elusive. Here, we report that scratching behaviors induced by histamine-dependent and -independent pruritogens are markedly reduced in mice lacking the Tlr3 gene. TLR3 is expressed mainly by small-sized primary sensory neurons in dorsal root ganglions (DRGs) that coexpress the itch signaling pathway components transient receptor potential subtype V1 and gastrin-releasing peptide. Notably, we found that treatment with a TLR3 agonist induces inward currents and action potentials in DRG neurons and elicited scratching in WT mice but not Tlr3(-/-) mice. Furthermore, excitatory synaptic transmission in spinal cord slices and long-term potentiation in the intact spinal cord were impaired in Tlr3(-/-) mice but not Tlr7(-/-) mice. Consequently, central sensitization-driven pain hypersensitivity, but not acute pain, was impaired in Tlr3(-/-) mice. In addition, TLR3 knockdown in DRGs also attenuated pruritus in WT mice. Finally, chronic itch in a dry skin condition was substantially reduced in Tlr3(-/-) mice. Our findings demonstrate a critical role of TLR3 in regulating sensory neuronal excitability, spinal cord synaptic transmission, and central sensitization. TLR3 may serve as a new target for developing anti-itch treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Liu
- Sensory Plasticity Laboratory, Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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35
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Abstract
Itch/pruritus can be very distressing in palliative care population and often is difficult to treat. Conventional antihistamines lack efficacy. Cutaneous and central pathogenesis of itch is extremely complex and unclear, making its treatment challenging. Neuronal mechanisms have been identified in the pathophysiology of itch hence providing a myriad of therapeutic options. It has been established that pruritus and pain neuronal pathway interact with each other, hence neuropathic analgesics like gabapentin has shown to be efficacious antipruritic therapeutic option. Gabapentin impedes transmitting nociceptive sensations to brain, thus also suppressing pruritus. Gabapentin is safe and found to be effective in uremic pruritus, cancer/hematologic causes, opiod-induced itch, brachioradial pruritis, burns pruritus, and pruritus of unknown origin. Further research is required in this area to establish whether gabapentin is consistently effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheeba Anand
- Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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