Symptom: Itchiness

Initial Grading Reminder

CTCAE Criteria for Itchiness:

Grade 1 (Mild): Mild or localized; topical intervention indicated
Grade 2 (Moderate): Intense or widespread; intermittent; skin changes from scratching (e.g., edema, papulation, excoriations, lichenification, oozing/crusts); oral intervention indicated; limiting instrumental ADLs
Grade 3 (Severe): Intense or widespread; constant; limiting self-care ADLs or sleep; oral corticosteroid or immunosuppressive therapy indicated

Assessment and Grading

Characterize the symptom (onset, pace)

Ask the patient:

Have you had an issue with itchiness/dry skin in the past? Where on your body is it itchy? Do you have a rash or any tiny red bumps where it is itchy? If so, could you please send a photo? Are you taking any new medications, OTCs, supplements, or marijuana (especially antibiotics or anti-seizure medications)?

Grade the symptom

Ask the patient:

How itchy is your skin? Have you been scratching it? Is it interfering with your normal daily activities or sleep?

Patient Query Regarding Other Symptoms/Red Flags

Ask the patient:

Do you have a rash over more than 50% of your body? Is your mouth involved? Do any of the sores look infected? Do you have yellowing of the skin, abdominal (belly) pain, abdominal bloating, and/or nausea?

Patient Factors to Consider That Affect the Approach to Intervention

Consider the following in individualizing the intervention: Is the patient a good or poor historian? Any language barriers or cognitive deficits? Is the patient reliable (able to carry out treatment recommendations)? Does this patient have alcohol/substance abuse issues? Does the patient have transportation? Is there sufficient caregiver support?