Verbalizing Extremes of the Visual Analogue Scale for Pruritus: A Consensus Statement.

The authors propose the consolidation of the verbalizations of extremes of the visual analogue scale (VAS) for itch intensity and sleep disturbance or nocturnal itch in pruritus. The use of VAS to assess pruritus severity is considered. Core items for evaluating pruritus in clinical settings discussed by members of the Japanese Society for Dermatoallergology and Contact Dermatitis are described. The necessity of clarifying the verbal expression of the ten-point end in VAS is also addressed.