The Management of Chronic Pruritus in the Elderly
The elderly in North America represent the fastest growing segment of the population and the most common skin complaint in this age group is pruritus. The multitude of variables that come with advanced age means that the management of pruritus in the elderly poses a particular therapeutic challenge. Pruritus in advanced age may result from a variety of etiologies, although xerosis is the most common. In addition, certain cutaneous and systemic diseases that are associated with pruritus are more prevalent in the elderly. At present, there is no universally accepted therapy for pruritus. Currently, management of pruritus in the elderly must take an individualistically tailored approach with consideration of the patient's general health, the severity of symptoms, and the adverse effects of treatment. Physical and cognitive limitations, multiple comorbid conditions, and polypharmacy are some aspects that can influence the choice of treatment in this age group.
Pruritus is the most common skin complaint in patients over the age of 65 years. This often neglected symptom can have a profound impact on the quality of life in the elderly, especially through sleep deprivation. Given the multitude of variables that come with advanced age, the management of pruritus in the elderly poses a particular clinical challenge.
Abstract and Introduction
Abstract
The elderly in North America represent the fastest growing segment of the population and the most common skin complaint in this age group is pruritus. The multitude of variables that come with advanced age means that the management of pruritus in the elderly poses a particular therapeutic challenge. Pruritus in advanced age may result from a variety of etiologies, although xerosis is the most common. In addition, certain cutaneous and systemic diseases that are associated with pruritus are more prevalent in the elderly. At present, there is no universally accepted therapy for pruritus. Currently, management of pruritus in the elderly must take an individualistically tailored approach with consideration of the patient's general health, the severity of symptoms, and the adverse effects of treatment. Physical and cognitive limitations, multiple comorbid conditions, and polypharmacy are some aspects that can influence the choice of treatment in this age group.
Introduction
Pruritus is the most common skin complaint in patients over the age of 65 years. This often neglected symptom can have a profound impact on the quality of life in the elderly, especially through sleep deprivation. Given the multitude of variables that come with advanced age, the management of pruritus in the elderly poses a particular clinical challenge.
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