brachioradial pruritus

Etiology

• disease of the cervical spine
• inflammation or irritation of cervical nerves
• chronic sun damage may contribute

Clinical manifestations

• burning, itching or stinging on the extensor surface of the arms, forearms or upper back
• deep, crawling or tingling sensation
• recurrent or persistent pruritus
• absence of primary skin lesions or hyperpigmented patch, 'itch without a rash'
• lichenification & hyperpigmentation can result from chronic scratching

Radiology

• imaging of cervical spine generally not indicated

Management

• application of ice or cold packs (diagnostic)
• toplical analgesia
  • pramoxine
• gabpentin or pregabalin may be of benefit
• in the absence of gross cervical spine pathology, surgery is not likely to be of benefit

Notes

• see neuropathic pruritus

More general terms

• neuropathic pruritus