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neuropathic pruritus
Classification:
- notalgia paresthetica
- brachioradial pruritus
Etiology:
- disease of the cervical spine or thoracic spine
Clinical manifestations:
- localized, perisistent areas of pruritus without associated primary skin lesions
- generally on the back or forearms
- may be sensory deficits &/or motor deficits
- may be abnormal reflexes
Radiology:
- magnetic resonance imaging of the spine if neurologic signs
Differential diagnosis:
- neurogenic pruritus
- psychogenic pruritus
Management:
- pharmaceutical agents
a) gabapentin
b) carbamazepine
c) topical capsaicin
d) do not use topical glucocorticoids [1]
e) do not use antihistamines [1]
- application of cool packs or ice [1]
- see pruritus or specific etiology
Related
neurogenic pruritus
psychogenic pruritus
Specific
brachioradial pruritus
notalgia paresthetica
General
pruritus (itching)
References
- Medical Knowledge Self Assessment Program (MKSAP) 15, 16, 18.
American College of Physicians, Philadelphia 2009, 2012, 2018.