Persistent itching, hard nodules, and now new treatment options – modern biologics bring real relief for Prurigo Nodularis
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What is Prurigo Nodularis?
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What causes Prurigo Nodularis?
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What treatment options have been available?
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A breakthrough: modern biologic therapies
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How does the treatment work?
What is Prurigo Nodularis?
Prurigo Nodularis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes severe and persistent itching together with hard, nodular skin lesions. Continuous scratching leads to thick, crusted bumps – often on the arms, legs, or torso.
The itch can be so intense that it disrupts sleep, concentration, and overall quality of life. Many patients suffer for years before receiving an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
What causes Prurigo Nodularis?
The exact cause is complex and involves both nerve and immune system overactivity in the skin. This overreaction keeps the itch–scratch cycle going. Prurigo Nodularis often occurs in people with atopic dermatitis (eczema), liver or kidney disorders, or allergies.
Stress, anxiety, and emotional strain can further aggravate symptoms, creating a frustrating vicious circle.
What treatment options have been available?
For decades, treatment options were limited. Patients were usually prescribed topical corticosteroid creams, moisturizers, or phototherapy (light treatment).
Antihistamines, while commonly used for itching, have little effect on Prurigo Nodularis, since the itch is not caused by histamine.
As a result, many people continued to suffer from severe, chronic itch despite consistent therapy.
A breakthrough: modern biologic therapies
Finally, there is hope. New biologic medications ((Dupilumab and Nemolizumab) now offer targeted treatment that directly addresses the root cause of Prurigo Nodularis. These therapies block specific inflammatory messengers in the immune system responsible for the constant itch and inflammation.
Many patients experience a significant reduction in itching within just a few weeks, along with smoother skin, better sleep, and an overall improvement in quality of life.
Biologics represent a real revolution in dermatology – offering relief where creams and light therapy have failed.
How does the treatment work?
After a thorough dermatological diagnosis and medical assessment, the treatment plan is tailored to each individual. Depending on the severity of symptoms, biologics can be combined with topical anti-inflammatory care, moisturizers, and light therapy for optimal results.
At the Dermatology Center at Vienna Central Station (Dermatologie am Hauptbahnhof Wien), we specialize in modern dermatological treatments and are among the first clinics in Austria to offer biologic therapy for Prurigo Nodularis.
Our goal is to reduce the chronic itch, heal the skin, and restore comfort and confidence.
We will gladly advise you in person about all possibilities and you are welcome to Book your appointment here.
In summary
Chronic inflammatory skin condition with severe itching and nodular lesions
Traditional therapies: corticosteroids, light therapy, and antihistamines – often with limited success
Biologic therapy: targeted, effective, and long-lasting relief
Noticeable improvement in itching and quality of life
Do you suffer from chronic itching or hard nodules on your skin?
Book an appointment at our clinic in Vienna – we will discuss the newest biologic treatments for Prurigo Nodularis and help you regain calm, healthy skin and restful sleep.
FAQ – Prurigo Nodularis
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about prurigo nodularis, chronic itch, and modern biologic therapies that finally provide targeted relief.
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What is Prurigo Nodularis?
Prurigo nodularis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that causes intense itching (chronic itch) and firm, often crusted nodules on the skin. Continuous scratching aggravates the condition and leads to thickened bumps, most often on the arms, legs, or torso.
Keywords: Prurigo nodularis, chronic itch, skin nodules, itchy skin disease
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What causes Prurigo Nodularis?
The exact cause is not fully understood. Research shows that an overactive immune and nerve response in the skin triggers the constant itch–scratch cycle. Prurigo nodularis is often linked to atopic dermatitis, allergies, liver or kidney disease, and can worsen under stress.
Keywords: causes of Prurigo nodularis, overactive immune system, neuroinflammation, stress and skin
from the health insurance funds. If you have a private supplementary insurance, the balance is often paid by this insurance.
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What are the latest treatment options?
For years, treatment options were limited to corticosteroid creams, moisturizers, or light therapy. Today, modern biologic therapies (Dupilumab and Nemolizumab) finally offer targeted relief. These medications block specific inflammatory pathways that drive itching and skin inflammation, helping restore comfort and skin balance.
Keywords: Prurigo treatment Vienna, biologic therapy for Prurigo nodularis, new treatment for chronic itch, modern dermatology Vienna
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How fast do biologics work?
Many patients experience significant improvement within 4–8 weeks — less itching, better sleep, and visibly calmer skin. Biologics provide long-term relief by addressing the root cause of the inflammation rather than just masking symptoms.
Keywords: biologic results, chronic itch treatment, effective therapy Prurigo nodularis
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Are biologic therapies covered by health insurance?
Yes. Biologic treatments for Prurigo nodularis are approved and usually covered by Austrian health insurance when prescribed by a dermatologist. Our team at Dermatology at Vienna Central Station will support you through the approval process. We have a lot of experience with biologic treatments.
Keywords: dermatologist Vienna, Prurigo nodularis therapy cost, biologic insurance coverage Austria
We will gladly advise you in person about all possibilities and you are welcome to Book your appointment here.
By Dr. Johannes Bisschoff
Published on 08.11.2025

