Burden of Chronic Pruritus in Cancer Patients: Influence of Medical and Surgical Comorbidities on Itch Severity and Quality of Life

Chronic pruritus is a distressing yet under-recognized symptom among cancer patients. This study evaluated how medical and surgical comorbidities influence itch severity and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with chronic pruritus. In a cross-sectional analysis of 85 patients, data on comorbidities, itch intensity (NRS), and QoL (DLQI) were assessed. Hypothyroidism and asthma were associated with the highest NRS and DLQI scores, respectively, while thyroid surgeries showed the most substantial QoL impact among surgical comorbidities. A strong correlation was observed between itch severity and QoL impairment (r = 0.65, p < 0.001). The findings highlight the necessity for integrative care approaches targeting comorbid conditions to mitigate the pruritus burden in oncology patients.