Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKD-aP) - sometimes called “kidney itch” - is far more than a nuisance. It’s a distressing, under-recognised symptom that affects many people with advanced CKD or those on dialysis, disrupting sleep, lowering mood and diminishing quality of life. Yet it often goes unreported, unseen and untreated.
A new free e-learning module on the UKKA Education Hub explores how healthcare professionals, including nephrologists, nurses, pharmacists and dialysis professionals, can recognise, assess and manage CKD-aP with greater confidence. Join for free now for this 1-hour, self-paced online course with certification.
Why CKD-aP matters
Research shows that around two-thirds of people receiving haemodialysis experience itching, with 40% describing it as moderate to severe. Despite its prevalence and impact, most nephrologists estimate that only a small fraction of their patients are affected - a striking gap between patient experience and clinical recognition.
CKD-aP can trigger a relentless itch–scratch cycle, cause skin damage, and lead to exhaustion, depression and social withdrawal. It can even reduce dialysis adherence, compounding the physical and psychological burden of kidney disease.
What you will learn
Through focused, practical modules, this course helps the whole multiprofessional team:
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Recognise CKD-aP as a significant but under-diagnosed condition in people with advanced CKD and on dialysis.
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Understand the biological mechanisms that drive CKD-aP - including immune dysregulation, neuropathy, uraemic toxins and opioid receptor imbalance.
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Identify and monitor symptoms using validated assessment tools such as the WI-NRS, Skindex-10 and 5-D Itch Scale.
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Appreciate the profound physical, emotional and social consequences of untreated itch, and how addressing it can improve patient comfort, wellbeing and treatment engagement.
Developed by leading experts
The module is presented by Prof James Burton, Professor of Renal Medicine at the University of Leicester and Clinical Vice President of the UK Kidney Association, and Kathrine Parker, Specialist Renal Pharmacist at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and Academic Vice President of the UKKA.
Their insights combine clinical expertise, pharmacological knowledge and a strong focus on improving the patient experience.
Free and accessible
This non-promotional e-learning course has been sponsored by CSL Vifor, who have reviewed it for technical accuracy and ABPI code compliance.
The CKD-aP module is free to access on the UKKA Education Hub and is designed for all kidney care professionals who want to understand and address this neglected symptom more effectively.