What is the medical term for severe itching?

The term "pruritus" specifically refers to the sensation of severe itching. It is a derived term used in medical contexts to describe this uncomfortable feeling that often leads to the desire to scratch the affected area. Pruritus can result from various causes, such as allergies, skin conditions, infections, or systemic diseases, and it is a common symptom that can significantly affect a person's quality of life.

Rash, while related to dermatological issues, denotes an area of irritated or swollen skin, which may or may not be itchy. Erythema refers to localized redness of the skin, often indicative of increased blood flow to an area due to inflammation or irritation, but it does not inherently involve the sensation of itching. Dermatitis is a general term for the inflammation of the skin that can lead to a variety of symptoms, including redness, swelling, and sometimes itching, but “pruritus” specifically pinpoints the sensation of itching itself. Thus, pruritus is the accurate medical term for severe itching.