Which term refers to an itching sensation?

Pruritus is the medical term specifically used to describe an itching sensation. It encompasses a wide range of causes, including allergies, skin infections, dry skin, and systemic diseases. Understanding this term is crucial in a medical office context, as effective patient communication relies on using precise terminology. When a patient reports itching, recognizing it as pruritus allows healthcare providers to narrow down potential underlying issues that might require further investigation or treatment.

The other terms relate to skin and inflammation but do not specifically denote itching. Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin often with associated symptoms, including redness and itching, but it’s a broader term covering various skin conditions. Inflammation is a general reaction of the body to injury or infection, which can sometimes present with itching, but it is not synonymous with the sensation itself. A lesion refers to any abnormal change in tissue, particularly the skin, and while lesions can be itchy, the term does not define the sensation of itching.