Causes, pathophysiology, and treatment of pruritus in the mature patient

Chronic itch is a common and debilitating health condition in the elderly. There are several common causes of itch in the mature population, such as skin xerosis, immunosenescence, and neuropathic changes. In addition, skin diseases, such as seborrheic dermatitis and stasis dermatitis, systemic conditions (end-stage renal disease and diabetes), or psychogenic derailments, such as depression, anxiety, and dementia, can all serve as triggers of pruritus. Polypharmacy, a common occurrence among the elderly population, may also serve as a cause of itch that may or may not be accompanied by dermatitis.
Source: Clinics in Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Authors: Source Type: research