Evaluation of uremic pruritus at an outpatient hemodialysis unit

Pruritus is a common complaint among end stage renal disease patients and has been associated with poor outcome. We characterized this problem at our outpatient hemodialysis unit. Seventy patients were surveyed over a two-day period. A visual analog scale was used to evaluate the intensity of itching. Location of itching and temporal relationship to dialysis was assessed by questionnaire. Laboratory parameters were evaluated to differentiate between those who itched and those who did not itch. Seventy percent of patients reported pruritus either during and/or between hemodialysis sessions. Itch intensity ranged from mild to severe. Forty-five percent of patients itched in three or more areas with the back and legs most commonly reported. Laboratory parameters were unable to differentiate between patients who itched and those who did not itch. Itching remains a common problem in hemodialysis patients. New treatments for patients resistant to standard therapies are needed.