Year: 2003
Type: article
Abstract: Pruritus is often the most troublesome symptom in patients with chronic liver disease, particularly when cholestasis is a prominent feature. The exact pathogenesis is unknown, but empirical treatment, such as cholestyramine, based on a liver-based origin of pruritus, has been used for many years. Recently, evidence for a central mechanism for pruritus has been obtained and opioid antagonists have been tried clinically with some benefit, but their use is not widespread. In addition, the pruritus associated with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy can now be alleviated in many cases by ursodeoxycholic acid. As it also improves foetal outcome, this should become first-line therapy. We review the pathogenesis and therapy of pruritus, highlighting practical aspects to help with patients with seemingly intractable pruritus.
Authors: M. Mela, A. Mancuso, A. K. Burroughs
Institution: The Royal Free Hospital
Language: English
Topic: Liver Diseases and Immunity
Subfield: Hepatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2077924643