Causes of itch without rash
Itch without rash usually has a simple cause that is not serious—most commonly it is due to xerosis (dry skin). Known causes, in approximate order of incidence, are listed in Causes of itch without rash. Sometimes the cause of itch without rash is not found, especially in elderly patients. In children, a cause is usually identified, most often dermographism—no rash is apparent until the skin is scratched. Generalised itch without rash is more frequent than localised itch without rash.
|
Condition [NB1][NB2] |
Examples [NB2] |
|---|---|
|
skin pathology |
xerosis (dry skin) scabies dermographism urticaria not apparent at time of examination |
|
nerve compression or neuropathy |
notalgia paraesthetica meralgia paraesthetica brachioradial pruritus vulvodyniaBohm-Starke, 2010Henzell, 2015 |
|
systemic conditions |
end-stage kidney disease cholestasis pregnancy thyroid dysfunction iron deficiency coeliac disease intestinal parasitic infections (eg strongyloidiasis [roundworm]) |
|
adverse effects of drugs and topical irritants |
opioids NSAIDs statins angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors diuretics recreational drugs (eg methamphetamine [‘ice’]) soaps, detergents, chlorine and other irritants |
|
malignancy and haematologic disease |
lymphoma, particularly Hodgkin disease leukaemia polycythaemia rubra vera multiple myeloma disseminated carcinoma |
|
neurological disorders |
multiple sclerosis brain tumour, abscess, infarct Parkinson disease |
|
psychological and psychiatric conditions |
stress anxiety depression phobic disorders (eg delusional parasitosis) obsessive compulsive disorder hypochondriasis |
|
Note:
NB1: Conditions are listed in approximate order of incidence, based on clinical experience. NB2: This is not an exhaustive list of conditions and examples. NSAIDs = nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs | |