jaundicepruritus

Jaundice pruritus, also known as cholestatic pruritus, is a type of itching that is commonly associated with jaundice. Jaundice itself is the yellowish discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes, caused by an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood. While jaundice is a visible symptom, pruritus is the sensation of itching that can range from mild to severe and debilitating.

The exact mechanism linking elevated bilirubin to itching is not fully understood. However, it is believed that bile acids, which accumulate in the skin due to impaired bile flow, play a significant role. These bile acids may directly stimulate nerve endings in the skin, leading to the sensation of itching. Other factors, such as the release of histamine and serotonin, have also been implicated.

Jaundice pruritus can occur in a variety of conditions that cause cholestasis, which is reduced or blocked bile flow from the liver. This includes conditions like gallstones, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and certain liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. It can also be a side effect of some medications.

The itching associated with jaundice pruritus can be widespread or localized, and it is often worse at night, disrupting sleep and significantly impacting a person's quality of life. Management focuses on treating the underlying cause of cholestasis and relieving the itching. Treatments may include medications to improve bile flow, antihistamines, bile acid sequestrants, or other therapies aimed at reducing the buildup of pruritogenic substances.