Capture of Patient Itch Scores in Practice Reveals Disparate Itch Impact on the Basis of Age, Gender, and Race: A Cross-Sectional Survey Analysis

Abstract

Background

Skin symptom burden, varying with patient populations, may not be readily observed by clinicians, resulting in incomplete appreciation of total skin disease burden.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to define patient itch burdens and associated health-related QOL affecting different patient demographics and to identify potential population health disparities.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional, secondary data analysis of data captured using an automated routine electronic previsit survey completed by patients who visited Emory Healthcare Dermatology clinic between March 2021 and October 2022 (6532 patient visits). Descriptive statistics and ordered logit regression analyses were used to examine the prevalence and intensity of itch and the impacts of itch on QOL.

Results

Overall itch burden increases as age increases; females and African Americans experienced more itch burden than males and other racial groups. Itch places significant symptom, emotional, and functional burdens on patients’ QOL, impacts that are independent of patients’ demographics.

Limitations

The data collected were from a single dermatology practice and may not be reflective of other practices or populations.

Conclusion

Dermatology previsit surveys are feasible in examining the significant pruritus burden, especially for older individuals, females, and African Americans with chronic skin conditions.