Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus in children

Abstract

This study evaluated the frequency and severity of pruritus and dry skin in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). A total of 103 children were included: 72 with CKD stage 3-5 (34 on dialysis and 38 treated conservatively without dialysis) and 31 as a reference group. Pruritus was assessed using the 4-item Itch Questionnaire and a visual analogue scale. Skin dryness was evaluated clinically, by non-invasive assessment of epidermal hydration and measurement of transepidermal water loss. Pruritus occurred in 20.8% of children with CKD, 18.4% on conservative treatment (receiving supportive care without dialysis) and 23.5% on dialysis. Xerosis was more common in children with pruritus (66.7%) than in those without pruritus (50.9%). Patients with pruritus had a significantly lower estimated glomerular filtration rate and a higher ratio of calcium × phosphate product (Ca × P). In conclusion, CKD-associated pruritus occurs not only in adults, but also in children, and it may already be present in the early stages of CKD.