Chronic Kidney Disease–Associated Pruritus and Quality of Life: Learning from Our Patients

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease–associated pruritus is itching directly related to kidney disease that cannot be explained by any other condition. Despite technological advances in the different aspects of dialysis sessions and the best treatment for chronic kidney disease patients, it is still a common problem in our patients. The many complex physiological mechanisms involved, the different hypotheses made over the years on the aetiology of the condition, and the great clinical variability may partially explain the limited knowledge about this problem and the difficulties in treating it. The presence of all these factors leads to the persistence of unpleasant symptoms, which must affect the disease burden and quality of life of kidney patients. Through the presentation of an illustrative clinical case, the aim of this review article is to highlight the need for adequate diagnosis and an improved approach to all aspects of chronic kidney disease–associated pruritus, in view of the heavy burden of the disease and the huge impact on the patient’s quality of life.

Keywords

• chronic kidney disease
• haemodialysis
• pruritus
• opioid system
• quality of life