Dupilumab as a treatment for generalized idiopathic pruritus: a report of two cases

Abstract

Chronic pruritus markedly impairs quality of life has been compared to living with chronic pain (1). Generalized pruritus can be associated with underlying medical diseases or be deemed idiopathic (1). Regarding idiopathic pruritus, guidelines published by the British Association of Dermatologists state that, various systemic treatments have been used, however, no randomized controlled trials have found any one therapy to be effective and safe (2). Novel topical agents such as crisaborole are safer than long-term use of corticosteroids, but many patients require systemic therapy. (3) Dupilumab, a human monoclonal antibody that blocks interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), is a life-changing treatment for patients suffering from atopic dermatitis (4).