Update on pathophysiology of senile pruritus and its impact on quality of life
Update on pathophysiology of senile pruritus and its impact on quality of life

Summary/Abstract: Itch is a common dermatologic complaint in people over the age of 65 years. Chronic pruritusis considered to be a common health problem in the elderly population, and negativelyimpacts the quality of life in the affected individuals. Senile pruritus can be a result ofmultiple conditions, including aging process (xerosis, immunologic changes), cutaneousconditions (seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, scabies), systemic conditions(chronic kidney disease, thyroid disfunction or malignancy), neuropathic and psychogeniccauses. Senile pruritus is more like a diagnosis of exclusion, difficult to treat becausepolimedication has to be avoided in eldery patients. Senile pruritus and its impact on qualityof life could foster comorbidities and patients must be provided with follow-up, support andeducation to enable better compliance and monitoring.

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