Pruritus in the Elderly

Abstract

In Japan the number of elderly persons complaining of pruritus increases in fall and winter, dry seasons, in the country. This symptom which is known as “pruritus senilis” has been regarded as a form of xeroderma. However, various diseases are falsely considered as pruritus by the elderly. Therefore, in the treatment of such cases, lesions which cannot be detected as a result of the diminished sensitivity in the elderly should be confirmed by careful evaluation. Described herein are experiences of successful treatment of such pruritus by psychotherapy alone and no drugs, for those not regarded as having xeroderma, as a rich sebum was apparent as was the use of an emollient cream and cosmetics.