Chronic pruritus (CP) is defined as itch lasting 6 weeks or longer, and frequently occurs in older adults aged ≥ 65 years due to age-related pathophysiological changes which occur in the epidermal barrier, immune system and nervous system. Topical treatments form the cornerstone of CP therapy and are safer alternatives to systemic therapy in older adults, who are a vulnerable patient population. Topical treatments can be broadly categorised into those that target physiological changes to skin structure, inflammatory itch or neuropathic itch. Therapy should be tailored to address the underlying cause of CP in older adults to achieve resolution of pruritus.
Chen et al. (Mon,) studied this question.