‘When you do not feel comfortable in your skin, you cannot get out of it’; a qualitative interview study exploring psychosocial impact and coping strategies among patients with prurigo nodularis

Abstract

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a disease associated with severe chronic pruritus and therefore causes a substantial impact on quality of life. This study aimed to explore the psychosocial burden of PN and the coping mechanisms employed by affected individuals to manage symptoms associated with the condition. In summary, patients reported a profound impact on various aspects of their lives, including mental wellbeing, relationships, self-perception, leisure activities, occupation, sleep patterns and clothing choices. Further, the disease led to social avoidance and isolation in patients.