polidocanol and Psoriasis

Itch management can be particularly complicated in some small areas like the scalp or the anogenital region for many reasons: the frequently poor diagnosis of the causes of itch in these areas, the dense innervation of these areas, and the symbolic value of these areas for the human psyche. The diagnosis of itchy scalp is easier than that of anogenital pruritus. Clinical examination and a careful inventory of all diseases of the patient and of the local environment are necessary. Localized treatments are frequently used at both sites, whereas specific pharmaceutical formulations are necessary for the pilose or the mucous environment. Nonetheless, systemic treatments or psychological interventions can be very useful.

Topics: Antifungal Agents; Candidiasis; Carcinoma in Situ; Dermatitis, Seborrheic; Female; Genital Diseases, Male; Hemorrhoids; Humans; Keratolytic Agents; Lichenoid Eruptions; Male; Polidocanol; Polyethylene Glycols; Pruritus; Pruritus Ani; Pruritus Vulvae; Psoriasis; Scabies; Scalp Dermatoses

Topics: Biopsy; Detergents; Diagnosis, Differential; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Infant; Male; Polidocanol; Polyethylene Glycols; Psoriasis; Remission, Spontaneous; Sclerosing Solutions; Skin; Time Factors

In an open multicentre drug monitoring survey, 1611 patients with atopic dermatitis, contact eczema, dry eczema, psoriasis and pruritus were treated with a preparation containing 5% urea and 3% polidocanol (laurylmacrogol). To monitor the course of treatment, three examinations were performed, one at the start of therapy and two more at intervals of approximately two weeks. A marked improvement in the status of the skin was observed during treatment. A marked regression occurred in the principal signs of dry skin--scaling, dryness and roughness. Troublesome itching was also greatly reduced. Almost half of the patients (48.9%) were free of itching at the end of the observation period. Adverse drug effects arose in only 2.8% of cases, and were mostly smarting, itching and irritation. No intolerance reactions were observed in children under six years. At the end of the observation period the skin status was judged, by both the doctors and the patients as 'good' or 'very good' in almost 90% of cases. Furthermore, the assessment with regard to the regression of itching was almost identical.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Child, Preschool; Dermatitis, Atopic; Drug Combinations; Eczema; Female; Humans; Infant; Male; Middle Aged; Polidocanol; Polyethylene Glycols; Product Surveillance, Postmarketing; Pruritus; Psoriasis; Urea