Neurodermatitis

Also called lichen simplex chronicus

Neurodermatitis is a skin condition that begins with an itch.

The itch can develop anywhere on the surface of the body. Most commonly, though, an itchy patch develops on an arm, leg, or the back of the neck. It also commonly develops in the anal and genital areas. When it appears in the genital area, it often appears on the scrotum or vulva.

The itch can be so intense that a person scratches or rubs the itchy patch frequently. The itch can also come and go. For most people, the area feels itchiest when they are relaxing or sleeping. The itch causes people to scratch or rub the area while sleeping — and it can awaken someone from a sound sleep.
Neurodermatitis is not contagious, so you cannot give it to someone.Quite often, the itch begins during an especially stressful time in someone’s life. Even when the stress subsides, the itch usually continues. Scratching or rubbing can change the appearance of that itchy patch.

To find out how the skin changes when scratched or rubbed, go to Neurodermatitis: Signs and symptoms.

Source: https://www.aad.org

Signs, symptoms

When a person has neurodermatitis, the person is likely to notice several of these signs and symptoms:

Itch: Neurodermatitis causes an itchy patch on the surface of the body. Unlike eczema, psoriasis, and other itchy skin conditions, people tend to develop just 1 or 2 patches that itch. While rare, neurodermatitis can cause several itchy patches.

When people develop neurodermatitis, they often find themselves:

• Scratching or rubbing the itchy patch(es), either frequently or sporadically
• Thinking that the patch(es) itches for no apparent reason
• Feeling itchiest while relaxing
• Feeling especially itchy when life becomes stressful

Pain: Some people feel pain. One study found that when neurodermatitis appears on the scalp, it may cause pain, itch, or both.

Raised, rough patch that is red to violet-colored: As the person continues to scratch or rub the itchy patch, a scaly, reddish to violet-colored patch appears.

Skin thickens and looks leathery: With frequent scratching or rubbing, the skin can thicken. The patch may look leathery and turn a brownish color. Very thick skin can have a grayish hue.

Hair loss: The scratching (or rubbing) can cause hair loss on areas like the scalp.

Open sore that bleeds: Repeatedly scratching or rubbing can wound the skin, leading to an open sore that bleeds. If this happens, the person has an increased risk of developing an infection.

Scarring: If a wound is deep, the skin may scar as it heals.

Infection: Signs of infection include honey-colored crusts and fluid leaking from the area. You may also see pus-filled bumps.

Some people are more likely to develop neurodermatitis. You can find out if you have an increased risk by going to Neurodermatitis: Who gets and causes.

Source: https://www.aad.org

Who gets, causes

Who gets neurodermatitis?

This skin condition is most likely to develop in someone who has the following traits:

Age: You’re between 30 and 50 years of age. This condition is rare in children; however, some children who have eczema (atopic dermatitis) develop neurodermatitis.

Gender: Women are more likely to develop neurodermatitis.

Medical history: You have a personal or family history of one or more of the following:

• Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
• Psoriasis
• Contact dermatitis
• An anxiety disorder, especially obsessive-compulsive disorder

Researchers have discovered that a trigger can increase the risk of developing neurodermatitis. Things that can trigger neurodermatitis include:

• Injury to a nerve
• Period of intense stress or emotional trauma
• Bug bite
• Tight clothing, especially clothing made of wool or a synthetic fabric like rayon or polyester
• Dry skin

Traffic exhaust, allergens, sweat, heat, and poor blood flow can also be a trigger.

What causes neurodermatitis?

While researchers have discovered that some people are more likely to get neurodermatitis, the cause is still unknown. This condition may develop when nerves overreact to anything from tight clothing to emotional stress. More research is needed.

If you think that you might have neurodermatitis, an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment are important. Neurodermatitis rarely goes away without treatment.

To find out how dermatologists diagnose and treat this condition, go to Neurodermatitis: Diagnosis, treatment, and outcome

Source: https://www.aad.org