J Korean Soc Coloproctol.  2011 Apr;27(2):54-57. 10.3393/jksc.2011.27.2.54.

Pruritus Ani

• Song SG
• Kim SH

• KMID: 2101563
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3393/jksc.2011.27.2.54

Abstract

Pruritus ani is an unpleasant cutaneous sensation that induces the desire to scratch the skin around the anal orifice. It may start insidiously and appears in 1% to 5% of the population. It is classified as primary (idiopathic) pruritus ani when no cause can be found. However, as 25% to 75% of cases have co-existing pathology, a detailed history and examination are necessary. The goal of treatment is asymptomatic, intact, dry, clean perianal skin with reversal of morphological changes. The management of pruritus ani is directed towards the underlying cause. If the diagnosis is idiopathic pruritus ani, the patients can still be managed with great success by eliminating of irritants and scratching, by giving general advice regarding hygiene and lifestyle modification and by using active treatment measures.

Keyword

Idiopathic pruritus ani; Active treatment measures

MeSH Terms

Humans
Hygiene
Irritants
Life Style
Pruritus
Pruritus Ani
Sensation
Skin
Irritants