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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 25, 2026

Cheek Injection Model for Simultaneous Measurement of Pain and Itch-related Behaviors

Cheek Injection Model for Simultaneous Measurement of Pain and Itch-related Behaviors

Published on: September 27, 2019

Common neuropathic itch syndromes.

Anne Louise Oaklander¹

¹Nerve Injury Unit, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, 02114, USA. aoaklander@partners.org

Acta Dermato-Venereologica

|February 7, 2012

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Chronic itch can signal underlying neurological conditions. Dermatologists should recognize neuropathic itch syndromes to ensure proper diagnosis and referral to neurologists for complex cases.

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Area of Science:

Neurology
Dermatology
Neuroscience

Background:

Chronic itch is a common dermatological complaint.
Some chronic itch conditions are manifestations of neurological disorders.
Dermatologists manage itch but may encounter neuropathic causes requiring neurological expertise.

Purpose of the Study:

To review current knowledge on neuropathic itch syndromes.
To highlight the importance of recognizing neurological causes of itch for dermatologists.
To guide dermatologists on diagnostic testing and referral for neuropathic itch.

Main Methods:

Literature review of neuropathic itch.
Summarization of common neuropathic itch syndromes.
Discussion of neurological diseases causing itch.

Main Results:

Neuropathic itch originates from the central or peripheral nervous system.
Diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves can cause chronic itch.
Specific neuropathic itch syndromes are associated with distinct neurological conditions.

Conclusions:

Dermatologists require awareness of neuropathic itch.
Early recognition of neurological causes is crucial for patient management.
Collaboration between dermatology and neurology is essential for diagnosing and treating neuropathic itch.