Brachioradial Pruritus as a Cause of Generalized Pruritus

Brachioradial pruritus is characterized by localized neuropathic itching, burning, and stinging of the arms and forearms. The disease is aggravated by sun exposure and often remits in the winter. Patients frequently obtain relief by applying cold objects to affected areas, the so-called ice-pack sign. Brachioradial pruritus is associated with abnormalities of the cervical spine, including tumors.

These authors report a case series of eight patients who had generalized pruritus in addition to the dysesthesia of the upper extremities. Careful questioning of these patients revealed that the itching and burning was most severe on the arms. In all cases, radiographic studies provided evidence of abnormalities in the C5–C8 cervical spine.