Author/Authors :
Al-Qarqaz, Firas A. Jordan University of Science and Technology - Department of Dermatology, Jordan , Al Aboosi, Mustafa Jordan University of Science and Technology - Department of Dermatology, Jordan , Al-Shiyab, Diala Jordan University of Science and Technology - Department of Dermatology, Jordan , Bataineh, Ahnaf Jordan University of Science and Technology - Department of Medicine, Jordan
Abstract :
Background: Pruritus is a common complaint for patients with dermatologic diseases. Data available regarding pruritus and its characteristics are plentiful but inconsistent. There is a need for the proper assessment of pruritus. Objectives: An attempt was made to quantify pruritus in 3 groups of patients: atopic dermatitis (AD), psoriasis, and end stage renal disease (ESRD) using the Pruritus Grading System (PGS). Methods: Patients with AD, psoriasis and ESRD were assessed by a structured questionnaire evaluating the parameters of PGS. Eighty patients were included and the findings of their PGS are presented here. Results: Patients with AD showed the worst grades of pruritus in the majority of patients. Patients with ESRD had mild to moderate grades in the majority of patients. Patients with psoriasis were less uniform with only around one fifth being severe grade. Interference with sleep was mostly seen in patients with AD while in psoriasis and ESRD, it was much less likely. Overall females had higher PGS scores in all3 groups. Conclusion: PGS may be a good assessment tool in evaluating pruritus in AD, psoriasis and ESRD. This study showed that patients with AD are more likely to have moderate and severe pruritus and are more likely to have their pruritus affecting their sleep.
