Relationship between xerosis and pruritus in patients with chronic kidney disease

Abstract

Xerosis and pruritus are the most common skin disorders in patients with chronic kidney diseases (CKD). The prevalence and intensity of those skin changes are higher in patients undergoing dialysis, independent of its type, compared to patients treated conservatively. However, they can occur even in the early stages of CKD and be very bothersome for the sufferers. The problem of dry skin in CKD patients, its characteristics, reasons and relationship between xerosis and pruritus have been described. The current views on the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKD-P), formerly known as uremic pruritus, have been discussed. This article summarizes the available treatment options for CKD-P, including both topical and systemic therapies. The authors direct attention to the need for skin lesions treatment in order to prevent their progression and to improve the quality of patients’ life.