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Related Experiment Videos

Merkel cells and prurigo nodularis

G T Nahass1, N S Penneys

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri.

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|July 1, 1994
PubMed
Summary

Merkel cells, a component of the neurocutaneous system, are found in increased numbers in prurigo nodularis skin. This finding suggests Merkel cells may contribute to the neurocutaneous abnormalities in this condition.

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Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Neuroscience
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Prurigo nodularis is associated with increased dermal nerves, potentially causing intense pruritus.
  • Merkel cells are part of the neurocutaneous system, prompting investigation into their role.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the density of Merkel cells in prurigo nodularis.
  • To determine if Merkel cell density correlates with neurocutaneous abnormalities in prurigo nodularis.

Main Methods:

  • Skin biopsy specimens from 20 prurigo nodularis cases were analyzed.
  • Immunohistochemical assays using an antibody to cytokeratin 8 (CAM 5.2) were performed to identify Merkel cells.
  • Six cases of lichen simplex chronicus served as controls.

Main Results:

  • Merkel cells were identified in 75% of prurigo nodularis cases.
  • Increased Merkel cell presence was observed in the interfollicular basal cell layer.
  • Only 17% of control cases showed Merkel cells, indicating a significant difference.

Conclusions:

  • Merkel cells are significantly increased in prurigo nodularis.
  • The elevated number of Merkel cells suggests their involvement in the neurocutaneous abnormality of prurigo nodularis.

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