Pruritus

Pruritus refers to a common skin condition characterized by itching without primary skin lesions. Patients may experience a burning sensation or a feeling of ants crawling on their skin. Due to the itching, patients repeatedly scratch, which can lead to redness, roughness, and raised skin. In severe cases, bleeding or even secondary infection may occur. Pruritus is a common dermatological condition, more prevalent in women than men, and in Asians than Caucasians. Its incidence increases with age.