Question

Which clinical signs and symptoms are indicative of pruritus?

1 Itching of skin
2 Small, raised reddened vesicles over the body
3 Raised, irregularly shaped skin eruptions with reddened margins and pale centers
4 Inflammation of mucous membrane lining the nose

Answer 1

Pruritus is the medical term for itching and is a common symptom of skin conditions like eczema, characterized by dry, itchy patches, raised reddened vesicles, and possibly swelling and flaking. Skin testing by allergists can help identify allergies that may trigger eczema.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pruritus, commonly referred to as itching, is a prevalent symptom associated with various skin conditions, including eczema. Clinical signs and symptoms indicative of pruritus, particularly in the context of eczema, involve itching of skin, the presence of dry, itchy patches that resemble rashes, and potentially the manifestation of small, raised reddened vesicles over the body. Eczema can also present with swelling of the skin, flaking, and in severe cases, bleeding. Furthermore, allergists may use skin testing to identify potential allergens causing an allergic reaction, which can manifest as eczema. In these tests, a wheal and flare response indicates a positive reaction, further supporting the diagnosis of an allergy-induced condition like eczema.