Neurodermatitis starts with a patch of itchy skin, but scratching it makes the area even itchier. Eventually you may scratch simply out of habit. This cycle of chronic itching and scratching can cause the affected skin to become thick and leathery.

Neurodermatitis — also known as lichen simplex chronicus — isn't serious, but breaking the itch-scratch cycle is challenging.

Successful treatment of neurodermatitis depends on identifying and eliminating factors that may be aggravating the problem. Over-the-counter and prescription creams can help ease neurodermatitis symptoms.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Signs and symptoms of neurodermatitis include:

• Itchy skin in a single limited area
• Leathery or scaly texture to the skin
• Raised, rough patch that is red or darker than the rest of your skin

The primary symptom of neurodermatitis is itchy skin — often a single patch on the neck, wrist, forearm, thigh or ankle. Sometimes neurodermatitis affects genital areas, such as the vulva or scrotum.

The itchiness, which can be very intense, tends to come and go. Eventually you may scratch simply out of habit.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if:

• You catch yourself repeatedly scratching the same patch of skin.
• The itch prevents you from sleeping or focusing on your daily routines.
• Your skin becomes painful or looks infected.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

The exact cause of neurodermatitis isn't known. Sometimes neurodermatitis begins with something that simply rubs or irritates the skin, such as tight clothing or a bug bite. As you rub or scratch the area, it gets itchier. The more you scratch, the more it itches.

In some cases, neurodermatitis is associated with other skin conditions — such as dry skin, eczema or psoriasis. Stress and anxiety can trigger itching, too.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Diagnosis is typically based on your skin's appearance and a history of itching and scratching. To rule out other causes, your doctor may remove a small sample of your affected skin for testing.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Persistent scratching can lead to a bacterial skin infection and permanent scars or changes in skin color. Scratching may also disrupt your sleep.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

To lessen the itch and irritation caused by neurodermatitis, follow these tips:

• Try over-the-counter medications. Apply an anti-itch cream or lotion to the affected area. A nonprescription hydrocortisone cream can temporarily relieve the itch. A nonprescription oral antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), may be helpful if itching is severe.
• Cover the affected area. Bandages or dressings can help protect the skin and prevent scratching. This may be especially important if you scratch during your sleep.
• Keep your nails trimmed. Short nails may do less damage to the skin, especially if you tend to scratch while you're asleep.
• Take cool baths. Sprinkle the bath water with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal — a finely ground oatmeal that is made for the bathtub (Aveeno, others).
• Wear smooth-textured cotton clothing. This will help you avoid irritation.
• Choose mild soaps without dyes or perfumes. Be sure to rinse the soap completely off your body. And after washing, apply an unscented moisturizer to protect your skin.
• Keep stress under control. Stress and anxiety can trigger itching.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Certain factors may increase your risk of neurodermatitis, including:

• Your sex and age. Women are much more likely to develop neurodermatitis than are men. The condition is most common between ages 30 and 50.
• Other skin conditions. People with a personal or family history of eczema, psoriasis or similar skin conditions are more likely to develop neurodermatitis.
• Anxiety disorders. Anxiety and stress can trigger the itch associated with neurodermatitis.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com