A multidisciplinary Delphi consensus on the modern definition of pruritus: Sensation and disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The definition of pruritus (synonym: itch) dates back to the 17th century and does not address the complexity of the sensation or the nature of pruritus as a disease.

Objectives

Elaborate a new definition of pruritus comprising emotional aspects, stages and causal attributes.

Methods

In a pre-Delphi phase, stakeholders from pruritus-relevant global societies and patients elaborated itch definition proposals. In a Delphi phase, consensus was achieved when ≥75% of the voting participants agreed (7-9 Likert scale rating range) on a statement.

Results

In two Delphi rounds, two statements defining the itch sensation and nine defining chronic pruritus as a disease achieved consensus. The definition of pruritus as an unpleasant sensation commonly triggering

SUBMITTER: Stander S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12512202 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature