Understanding itch: An update on mediators and mechanisms of pruritus.
Loading...
Date
2014-03
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Pruritus is the most common symptom secondary to skin diseases. Advances in the fi elds
of neurobiology, immunology and physiology have made it possible for us to understand
and unravel the deeper pathophysiological basis of pruritus. This review aims to update
our current understanding of the mechanisms and mediators of pruritus. Special attention
is paid to endogenous itch mediators particularly newly identifi ed ones like endovanilloids,
opioids, neurotrophins, cannabinoids, proteases and cytokines. Various theories explaining
the peripheral encoding of itch are reviewed. Multiple neural pathways including the central
itch pathways as well as supraspinal processing of itch and brain areas involved in pruritus
are highlighted. Apart from peripheral itch mediators, spinal neural receptors are also
involved in control of itch and should form part of the development of a novel antipruritic
strategy. Further studies are required to fi ll the lacunae in our current understanding of the
pathophysiology of pruritus.
Description
Keywords
Itch, mediators, neural pathways, pathophysiology, pruritus
Citation
Hassan Iffat, Haji Mir Laieq Ishtiyaq. Understanding itch: An update on mediators and mechanisms of pruritus. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology. 2014 Mar-Apr; 80(2): 106-114.