Pruritus: pathogenesis, classification, diagnostics and therapeutic methods (review)

Pruritus is an important problem of modern medicine, which goes far beyond dermatology. Itching, also known as pruritus, is a complex condition marked by an unpleasant skin sensation that makes you want to scratch. This article examines the etiology, categorization, diagnosis, and treatment modalities associated with pruritus. Histamine, cytokines, and neuropeptides are a few of the mediators involved in the pathophysiology of pruritus, along with interactions between the immune and neurological systems. Based on where it originates, pruritus can be categorized into dermatological, systemic, neuropathic, and psychogenic sources. The focus of diagnostic techniques is on a comprehensive clinical assessment to find underlying reasons. There are many different types of treatment methods, from systemic and topical drugs to non-pharmacological techniques like behavioral therapy, phototherapy, and neuromodulation. New treatments focus on particular biochemical pathways that are responsible for itching signal transmission. The paper presents an overview of modern views on the pathogenesis of pruritus and various methods of treatment.