Stefania Cirstea

Dr. Stefania Cirstea

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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24 June 2025 in Life
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
SCStefania Cirstea
Stefania Cirstea
Olguța Anca OrzanOlguța Anca Orzan
Olguța Anca Orzan
DZDiana-Silvia Zilisteanu
Diana-Silvia Zilisteanu
Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKD-aP) is a distressing symptom that affects both dialysis and non-dialysis patients, significantly impairing their quality of life. Despite its multifactorial pathophysiology, no gold-standard treatment has been established. This review explores various therapeutic options and evaluates their effectiveness based on recent clinical studies and meta-analyses. Therapies targeting novel mechanisms have evolved in recent years. Difelikefalin, a κ-opioid receptor agonist, represents a breakthrough in systemic treatment, demonstrating efficacy with a favorable safety profile. Another opioid-based therapy, nalfurafine, has shown notable symptom relief in multiple clinical studies, with a low risk of abuse. Sertraline, an antidepressant, offers another alternative, although its delayed onset remains a limitation. Nonpharmacologic approaches are also evolving. Phototherapy, particularly UV-B therapy, modulates the immune response, reduces inflammation, and effectively alleviates itching in hemodialysis patients. Personalized treatment strategies are crucial, as responses vary among patients. Further research, including comparative and long-term studies, is essential to refine treatment algorithms and improve patient outcomes. By integrating new pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic options, CKD-aP management is shifting toward a more tailored and effective approach that addresses the individual needs of each patient.