An overview of pruritus in autoimmune connective tissue diseases

Abstract Autoimmune connective tissue diseases (ACTD) are a broad spectrum of diseases including dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren syndrome, systemic sclerosis, and mixed connective tissue diseases. Pruritus is an unpleasant sensation leading to scratching. It is most commonly seen in dermatomyositis patients among ACTD. Itch can be mild to severe, hampering daily activities. It is often associated with disease severity. Apart from ACTD, pruritus may be due to antimalarial agents or due to adverse effects of medications used in ACTD. Therefore, it is prudent to find the pathogenesis of pruritus for adequate treatment. Pruritus in ACTD is underreported and undertreated. The article gives a comprehensive view of pruritus in ACTD, its pathogenesis, and management.