Prevalence of pruritus associated with hemodialysis and its association with sleep quality among hemodialysis patients: a multicenter study

CKD-associated pruritus (chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus) is one of the common symptoms in hemodialysis patients, with a major effect on sleep quality because it occurs at night. The main objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of pruritus among hemodialysis (HD) patients and its impact on sleep and investigate factors associated with pruritus and sleep quality.

A cross-sectional study began in January until March of 2021 in HD centers of four different hospitals in the West Bank, Palestine. Patients with HD aged 18 years or older were included in our investigation. Pruritus and sleep problems were assessed by a 5-D itching score and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score.

Of 280 HD patients, 250 were accepted to participate in our study. The mean age of the participants was (54.9 ± 15.08). 62.8% were male, and 42.4% of the participants were elderly (age ≥ 60yrs). Pruritus was observed in 121 (48.4%). The 5-D itching score had a median [IQR] of 5.0[5.0–15.0], and 57.2% had a score ≥ 6 points. Severe pruritus was reported in 28.1% of patients. The score was significantly associated with residency (p = 0.033) and chronic comorbidities (p = 0.026). The PSQI score has a median [IQR] of 8[5–12], and 66.4% are poor sleepers with a score of < 5. The score was significantly associated with age (p = 0.017), marital status (p = 0.022), occupational status (p = 0.007), chronic comorbidities (p > 0.001), chronic medication (p = 0.008), severity of pruritus (p = 0.003) and duration of pruritus (p = 0.003). Regression analysis showed that the 5-D itching score and the total number of comorbidities were significantly associated with the PSQI score.

Pruritus is a widespread complication among HD patients in Palestine. Pruritus also has major effects on sleep quality and is associated with poor sleep quality.