Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a chronic, debilitating skin disease that causes hard, itchy nodules (lumps) to form on the skin. The itching can be intense, and scratching can cause more skin lesions to appear.

The exact cause of prurigo nodularis is unknown. In some cases, people with prurigo nodularis have a history of other diseases including atopic dermatitis, lymphoma, HIV infection, severe anemia, or kidney disease.

Diagnosis of prurigo nodularis is based on observing signs such as extremely itchy skin with the formation of nodules. In some cases, a skin biopsy is used to confirm the diagnosis.

High-potency topical steroids are commonly prescribed to treat prurigo nodularis but are associated with safety risks if used long-term. Dupixent (dupilumab) is the first and only medicine specifically indicated to treat prurigo nodularis.

Drugs used to treat Prurigo Nodularis