| Literature DB >> 26407384 |
Vinod S Hegade1, Stuart F W Kendrick2, David E J Jones2.
Abstract
Pruritus (itch) is a common complication of cholestatic liver diseases (CLD). It can be a distressing and debilitating symptom, causing significant impairment in quality of life. Treatment of pruritus in liver diseases can be challenging and requires specific management with early initiation and a step-wise approach using specific drugs. Clinical trials are ongoing with novel agents that demonstrate potential efficacy. Patients with cholestatic pruritus are likely to present to a variety of clinicians who would benefit from medical awareness of available treatment options. In this review, we outline the pharmaceutical agents currently used to treat cholestatic pruritus and provide the evidence base for targeted symptom control of itch in liver diseases. We also highlight recent developments in the pathophysiology of cholestatic pruritus and the emerging novel therapies. © Royal College of Physicians 2015. All rights reserved.Entities:
Keywords: Pruritus; cholestasis; liver disease; primary biliary cirrhosis; treatment
Mesh:
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Year: 2015 PMID: 26407384 PMCID: PMC4952797 DOI: 10.7861/clinmedicine.15-4-351
Source DB: PubMed Journal: Clin Med (Lond) ISSN: 1470-2118 Impact factor: 2.659