Psychogenic Itch Management

Abstract

Pruritus is a bothersome and prevalent symptom reported by patients suffering from both cutaneous and extracutaneous diseases. Psychogenic pruritus, also referred to as functional itch disorder, is a distinct clinical entity. According to the definition proposed by the French Psychodermatology Group (FPDG) in 2007, the disorder is characterized by pruritus which is the chief complaint and psychologic factors that contribute to eliciting, worsening, and sustaining the symptoms. Specific diagnostic criteria were proposed, including 3 compulsory and 7 optional, of which 3 have to be met in order to establish the diagnosis. Psychogenic pruritus may require cooperation between dermatologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists. Psychotherapy and psychopharmacotherapy are mainstays of managing the disease. However, publications regarding psychogenic itch management are uncommon. Initially, general measures have to be taken, including avoiding irritating factors, preventing skin dryness, and frequent application of emollients. As in pruritus of other causes, several drugs are used, with more emphasis on substances that influence central nervous system: H1-antihistamines (hydroxyzine, chlorpheniramine, cyproheptadine, diphenhydramine, promethazine), tricyclic antidepressants (doxepin), tetracyclic antidepressants (mirtazapine), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline), antipsychotic drugs (pimozide), anticonvulsants (topiramate), and benzodiazepines (alprazolam), preferably depending on the coexisting symptoms.