Association of the inflammatory marker suPAR with chronic pruritus of unknown origin – data from the SOMA.PRU study
By
Stefan M. Kahnert
Lara Jürgens
Leonie Dreher
Christian Schmidt-Lauber
Ansgar Koechel
Gina L. Frank
Tobias B. Huber
Meike Shedden-Mora
Sonja Ständer
Markus Ramm
Gudrun Schneider
Rupert Conrad
June 16, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Link Between suPAR Inflammatory Marker and Chronic Pruritus of Unidentified Cause: Insights from the SOMA.PRU Study
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Chronic Pruritus of Unknown Origin (CPUO) Key Mechanisms Chronic systemic inflammation as a potential contributor to pruritus Target Population Adults with chronic pruritus lasting ≥ 6 weeks Care Setting Dermatology outpatient department
Key Highlights
CPUO patients exhibited the highest suPAR levels compared to controls and cAD patients. Higher baseline suPAR levels in CPUO correlated with increased pruritus intensity at follow-up. Chronic pruritus affects 15% to 20% of the general population, with CPUO affecting 6-15% of pruritus patients. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Assess pruritus intensity using a numeric rating scale (NRS, range 0–10). Differentiate between chronic pruritus of known and unknown origin. Management
Consider systemic inflammation as a factor in chronic pruritus management. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor suPAR levels as a potential biomarker for chronic inflammation in pruritus patients. Risks
Chronic pruritus can significantly reduce quality of life. Patient & Prescribing Data
Adults with chronic pruritus, including those with chronic atopic dermatitis and CPUO.
suPAR may serve as a biomarker for assessing the severity and progression of pruritus.
Clinical Best Practices
Incorporate assessment of systemic inflammation in the evaluation of chronic pruritus. Utilize suPAR levels to inform treatment decisions and monitor disease progression. Related Resources & Content
