Understanding and identifying the potential causes of dry, itchy skin

IntroductionCommon dermatological causesOther skin conditions associated with itchSystemic causes of dry, pruritic skinGeneral approach for management of a patient with dry skin/pruritusTreatment optionsTopical therapiesPatient referralReferences   Introduction There’s no doubt that itch (pruritus) and dry skin are common and troublesome dermatological complaints. Pruritus is defined as an unpleasant cutaneous sensation that provokes the desire to scratch.1 Although figures vary, itch has been reported to be a prominent symptom in between 8% and 42% of patients with a skin problem.2,3 Despite being a prevalent complaint, little is known about the underlying pathophysiology of itch, but it is likely to involve both