CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.
Pruritus vulvae - Management
What systemic conditions may cause pruritus vulvae?
- Any cause of generalized pruritus — including drug reactions and systemic diseases, such as renal or hepatic disease, diabetes, iron deficiency anaemia, lymphoma, other haematological abnormalities, and thyroid dysfunction.
- For more information on managing generalized pruritus, see the CKS topic on Itch - widespread.
- Psychological problems — may occasionally present as pruritus vulvae.
- Stress — may be a cause of itch, or if not an initial cause, an exacerbating factor causing prolongation of symptoms or a flare-up.
© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement