Itching (Pruritus) By Julia Benedetti, MD, Harvard Medical School Reviewed / Revised Dec 2021 | Modified Sep 2022 View Patient Education Pathophysiology Etiology Evaluation Treatment Geriatrics Essentials Key Points Topic Resources Some Causes of Itching Some Therapeutic Approaches... Itching is a symptom that can cause significant discomfort and is one of the most common reasons for consultation with a dermatologist.