Does eczema itch

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Does Eczema Itch?

Eczema and Itch: An Overview

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects a significant portion of the population. One of the most prominent and distressing symptoms of eczema is intense itching, which can severely impact the quality of life for those affected 349.

Prevalence and Characteristics of Itch in Eczema

Itch is a common and burdensome symptom for individuals with eczema. Studies have shown that a majority of patients with chronic hand eczema report experiencing itch, with 81% of patients in one study indicating they had felt itch in the three days prior to examination . This symptom is not only frequent but also significantly influences the severity of the disease and the patient's quality of life .

Pathophysiology of Itch in Eczema

The mechanisms behind itch in eczema are complex and involve both peripheral and central nervous system components. Recent research has identified several mediators that play a role in the pathophysiology of eczema-related itch, including the histamine 4 receptor, tryptase, and interleukin-31 5610. These mediators contribute to the sensation of itch by interacting with nerve fibers and immune cells in the skin, creating a cycle of itching and scratching that exacerbates the condition .

Clinical Measurement of Itch Intensity

Accurate measurement of itch intensity is crucial for effective management of eczema. The Harmonising Outcome Measures for Eczema (HOME) initiative has recommended several instruments for this purpose, including the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Itch Questionnaire, which uses numeric rating scales to assess average and peak itch over specific periods . These tools are designed to be quick, easy to use, and provide valuable data for both clinical practice and research .

Impact of Itch on Quality of Life

The impact of itch on the quality of life for eczema patients is profound. Itch can lead to sleep disturbances, emotional distress, and a feeling of stigmatization, all of which contribute to a lower quality of life 29. Effective management of itch is therefore essential not only for alleviating physical discomfort but also for improving the overall well-being of patients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, itch is a defining and distressing symptom of eczema that significantly affects patients' lives. Understanding the mechanisms behind itch and utilizing validated measurement tools can help in better managing this symptom and improving the quality of life for those with eczema. Continued research into the pathophysiology of itch and the development of targeted treatments will be crucial in advancing care for eczema patients.

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Most relevant research papers on this topic

Measuring Atopic Eczema Control and Itch Intensity in Clinical Practice: A Consensus Statement From the Harmonising Outcome Measures for Eczema in Clinical Practice (HOME-CP) Initiative.

The Recap of Atopic Eczema (RECAP) and Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool (ADCT) are recommended instruments for measuring eczema control in clinical practice, while the PROMIS Itch Questionnaire is recommended for measuring itch intensity.

Systematic Review

2022·

20citations

·Y. Leshem et al.

Prevalence and Characteristics of Itch and Pain in Patients Suffering from Chronic Hand Eczema

Itch and pain are common symptoms in chronic hand eczema patients, contributing to stigmatization and negatively impacting their quality of life.

Observational Study

2023·

9citations

·Adam Zalewski et al.

Eczema and infection.

Infections are common in eczema patients, and can cause severe itching and inflammation.

2008·

6citations

·P. Treadwell

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease with significant psychosocial impact and increased risk of food allergy, asthma, and mental health disorders.

Rigorous JournalHighly Cited

2016·

628citations

·S. Weidinger et al.

Itch and eczema.

Eczema patients experience itch due to histamine 4 receptor, tryptase, and IL-31, and central nervous inhibitory activity, requiring a combination of topical and systemic treatments for effective management.

2012·

11citations

·U. Darsow et al.

Pruritus and Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic eczema itch is influenced by histamine 4 receptor, tryptase, and interleukin-31, with central nervous inhibitory activity, and managing it requires combining topical and systemic treatments.

2011·

57citations

·U. Darsow et al.

A CASE DISCUSSION ON ECZEMA

Virechana and Raktamokshan karma effectively improves symptoms of eczema, providing cosmetic benefits and reducing itching in a patient.

Case Report

2015·

0citations

·Jyoti V. Meghdambar et al.

Histamine-induced itch and alloknesis (itchy skin) in atopic eczema patients and controls.

Histamine is probably not the key factor for spontaneous itch experienced by patients with atopic eczema, as reduced alloknesis responses to histamine do not compensate for the diminished primary afferent nerve responsiveness.

Observational Study

1995·

56citations

·Gisela Heyer et al.

Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestation of Itch in Atopic Eczema

Itch in atopic eczema is a chronic, relapsing skin condition characterized by a constant urge to scratch, often resulting in severe skin damage and sleep loss.

2006·

1citation

·U. Darsow et al.

What causes itch in atopic dermatitis?

Peripheral and central neural sensitization of nerve fibers contribute to itch in atopic dermatitis, with new mediators like serine proteases and interleukin 31 being identified.

Highly Cited

2008·

152citations

·G. Yosipovitch et al.

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