Prurigo

The older writers used this term in a variety of ways, and included under it several unrelated affections which possessed the common symptoms of itching. Modern usage, however, confines it to a definite affection, first clearly described by Hebra.

The disease is chiefly characterized by intense itching, often commencing early in life, and extending over a number of years. In the beginning little will be found in the way of lesion other than a few scattered papules, which are little if at all raised above the surface of the skin, and are perceived more readily by the sense of touch than by that of sight. They appear to be seated in the skin, and do not, except when directly irritated, project above it. Accompanying the papules we find the usual indications of all itching affections, namely, "scratch-marks," and these will be developed in direct ratio with the severity of the pruritus and the vulnerability of the skin. In addition to these we will find increased pigmentation, increased distinctness of the natural lines and furrows, and increased roughness, hardness, and thickness of the skin. The extensor surfaces of the limbs are the chief seats of the trouble. These phenomena may be embraced under the title of prurigo mitis, or vulgaris, but in exceptional cases, however, all the symptoms may be greatly aggravated, con­stituting the prurigo ferox of Hebra. The papules are larger, the excoriations more severe, and the papules may be torn open, giving exit to a little seropurulent fluid; and a localized Or general eruption may complicate, and, to a certain extent, mask the primary affection. The whole surface becomes deeply pigmented, and the axillary and inguinal glands become enlarged.


Prurigo, whether in a mild or severe form, is a chronic disease, occurring even in childhood, and lasting for Me.

The etiology of prurigo is unknown. The microscope throws about as much light upon the subject, as on many other cutaneous affections. Different observers obtain different results. The majority suggest the possibility of a connection with the sudatory apparatus.

Prurigo is mainly an affection of the poorer classes, and occurs mostly on the extensor surfaces of the lower extremities, but is frequently found on the forearms and trunk. It is aggravated during the winter months.