Pruritus in renal transplant recipients: Current state of knowledge

Abstract

Chronic itch (CI) is the most common symptom in dermatology. It is considered a great burden with a large impact on patients' quality of life, interfering with everyday activities. During the course of chronic kidney disease (CKD) many patients develop end-stage renal disease (ESRD)-associated CI (ESRDCI). Its pathogenesis is yet to be fully explained, but multiple mechanisms have been described, including, among others, dysregulation of calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone and vitamin D axis, microinflammation, and accumulation of uremic toxins. The treatment consists of both topical and systemic therapy, but unfortunately it is usually difficult and unsatisfactory. Renal transplantation (KTx) as the best renal replacement therapy improves considerably the patient's life quality and decreases the mortality rate. However, its influence on CI has not been well described. In this review, we presented the available literature on the influence of KTx on ESRDCI and demonstrated the possible ways in which transplanted kidney could help patients suffering from CI.

Keywords: kidney transplantation; pruritus; uremia.