ABSTRACT
The challenge of pruritus is a continuing one, since no underlying cause is found in many patients. It is a significant medical problem, with some surveys showing it as the cause for two million office visits a year. Of these patients, 48% considered pruritus as a problem interfering with their social activities during the day, 46% interfering with their social activities at night. Sixty percent noted problems sleeping, and 42% had problems at work and school. Therefore, this is a medical challenge that has been seen by practitioners on a fairly frequent basis. Mild symptoms respond to moisturizers and OTC remedies, but most severe cases result in a visit to the dermatologist.
