Related Experiment Videos
Abnormal cutaneous neurosensitivity in atopic skin.
1Department of Dermatology, University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica. Supplementum
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Patients with atopic eczema show reduced responses to histamine and substance P, suggesting nerve fiber involvement. This may be due to down-regulated histamine receptors on nerve endings, compensating for increased histamine release.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
Background:
- Atopic eczema is associated with altered sensory perception.
- Elevated histamine release from cutaneous mast cells is a known feature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the sensory nerve function in patients with atopic eczema.
- To explore the relationship between histamine, substance P, and nerve responses in atopic eczema.
Main Methods:
- Iontophoresis of histamine to assess vascular and itch responses.
- Intradermal injection of substance P to evaluate flare and itch sensations.
Main Results:
- Patients with atopic eczema demonstrated an inability to distinguish histamine concentrations.
- Reduced flare reactions and weaker itch sensations were observed with varying substance P concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Unmyelinated afferent skin nerve fibers appear affected in atopic eczema pathophysiology.
- Down-regulation of histamine receptors at nerve endings may compensate for increased histamine release in these patients.