Evaluation on the antipruritic role of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in the treatment of pruritic dermatoses.
BACKGROUND
Pruritus is a common and sometimes distressing symptom in many dermatological conditions. Response to conventional pharmaceutical agents may not be satisfactory, and adverse effects are real problems.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the short-term efficacy and adverse effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for ameliorating pruritus in patients with dermatoses.


METHODS
A prospective 1-week study using TENS given once daily for treating pruritic dermatoses in 5 patients.


RESULTS
Significant amelioration of pruritus was obtained without adverse effect referable to TENS treatment, and a subjective reduced use of conventional topical drugs was also reported by all patients.


CONCLUSIONS
TENS is a useful aramentarium for short-term amelioration of pruritus in pruritic dermatoses. Long-term efficacy and safety await further studies.
Tang
W Y
WY
Social Hygiene Service, Department of Health, The Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong.
Chan
L Y
LY
Lo
K K
KK
Wong
T W
TW
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011537:Pruritus / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012890:Sleep / Q000187:drug effects; D004561:Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation; D016896:Treatment Outcome