How to diagnose and treat pruritus?

Pruritis is the medical term for itchy skin. Pruritis can occur with or without a rash. The list of causes for pruritis is a mile long. If there is a rash and likely culprit, such as contact dermatitis after exposure to poison ivy the diagnosis is straightforward. But diagnosing the underlying cause of pruritis with a non-descript or no rash first requires a doctor taking a detailed history, especially regarding all medications and supplements. Blood tests and a skin biopsy may be needed.