INDIVIDUAL ARTICLE: Prurigo Nodularis: Current Clinicopathologic Overview and Psychodermatological Perspectives

J Drugs Dermatol. 2023 Dec 1;22(12):SF365502s6-SF365502s11. doi: 10.36849/JDD.SF365502.

Abstract

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a quintessential neurocutaneous condition characterized by neural sensitization and intractable itch leading to intense scratching. This causes the formation of nodules with epidermal thickening and further release of pro-inflammatory mediators that recruit immune cells and increase dermal nerve proliferation and hypertrophy perpetuating the itch-scratch cycle. Those with PN have a significant quality-of-life (QoL) burden due to itch, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. In addition, PN exhibits psychiatric comorbidities that affect mental wellbeing such as depression, mood disorders, and substance abuse. This paper serves as an overview of the clinicopathologic aspects of PN, the burden of PN on QoL, and the psychodermatological aspects of the disease state.  J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22:12(Suppl 2):s6-11.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety / epidemiology
  • Comorbidity
  • Humans
  • Prurigo* / complications
  • Prurigo* / diagnosis
  • Prurigo* / epidemiology
  • Pruritus / diagnosis
  • Pruritus / epidemiology
  • Pruritus / etiology
  • Quality of Life