The relationship between therapeutic modalities and itch intensity in patients with diabetes mellitus

Desy Sahara Putri Simanjuntak; Ariyati Yosi; Dina Arwina Dalimunthe

Desy Sahara Putri Simanjuntak Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
Ariyati Yosi Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
Dina Arwina Dalimunthe Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia

Keywords: diabetes mellitus, treatment modalities, pruritus intensity

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia that can lead to various complications, including pruritus. The severity of pruritus in DM patients may vary and is influenced by factors such as blood glucose control, diabetic neuropathy, and skin conditions. Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches are utilized to manage DM and its associated skin conditions. This study aims to analyze the relationship between treatment modalities and pruritus intensity in DM patients. This study employed an observational design with a cross-sectional approach. All eligible study participants were DM patients aged 18–60 years experiencing pruritus. The severity of pruritus was assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, with significance set at p<0.05. Among 76 participants, 46.1% received oral antidiabetic medications, 44.7% received injectable antidiabetic medications, and 9.2% received a combination of both. The majority of patients reported moderate pruritus intensity. Statistical analysis revealed no significant association between treatment modalities and pruritus intensity (p=0.157). There was no significant relationship found between treatment modalities and pruritus intensity in DM patients.