Neurodermatitis - VnExpress Health

Neurodermatitis ranks fifth among the seven most common types of eczema, and is a chronic, progressive disease with a high recurrence rate.

This article was professionally reviewed by Dr. Le Vi Anh, Department of Dermatology and Cosmetic Skin, University Medical Center of Ho Chi Minh City.

Define

Neurodermatitis, also known as chronic simple lichen, is an inflammatory skin condition identified after ruling out more common causes such as allergic or irritant contact dermatitis.

Symptom

- The most common symptom is itching. Initially, the itching is mild, then it intensifies into episodes and then bursts, most severe at night.

- The most common clinical manifestation is thickened, lichenified patches of skin with varying colors on areas frequently scratched.

- The lesions vary in color from yellow to reddish-brown, usually centered. The size of the lesions can vary from 3 to 10 cm or more.

- Skin lesions appear singly or in clusters.

- Lesions can appear anywhere, often in areas the patient can reach, such as the head, neck, arms, scalp, and genital area.

Reason

The cause of the disease is still unknown.

- Conditions such as atopic dermatitis or allergic predisposition are thought to be more likely to cause lichenification.

Furthermore, a correlation has been found between central and peripheral nervous tissue and inflammatory mediators in the potential for itching and disease development.

Stress, nervous breakdown, and mental disorders can also lead to scratching.

- If there is itching in the scrotum, attention should be paid to checking for pinworms. If there is itching in the vagina, attention should be paid to checking for vaginal discharge, Candida fungus, Trichomonas, etc.

Diagnose

- Neurodermatitis is diagnosed by examining the affected skin area and determining whether there is itching and scratching.

- The doctor takes a small sample of the affected skin area (skin biopsy) for testing to rule out other causes.

Treatment

- Topical anti-itch cream:

* If over-the-counter corticosteroid creams don't help, your doctor may prescribe a stronger corticosteroid or a non-steroidal anti-itch product.

* Use a calcineurin-inhibiting ointment (tacrolimus) if it involves the vulva.

- Corticosteroid injections, administered directly to the affected skin area, help wounds heal faster.

- Itching relief medication: Prescription antihistamines help reduce itching in many people with neurodermatitis. Some of these medications can cause drowsiness and help reduce scratching while sleeping.

- Anti-anxiety medication: Anxiety and stress can trigger neurodermatitis, and anti-anxiety medication can help prevent itching.

- Patches: For persistent itching, use 5% lidocaine or 8% capsaicin patches.

- Light therapy: Sometimes, exposing the affected skin area to certain types of light will reduce itching.

- Psychotherapy: Talking to a counselor helps you learn how to control your emotions and behavior, thereby reducing itching and scratching.

- New therapies:

* According to small studies, some people who do not experience improvement in symptoms may consider a newer treatment such as OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections. This technique helps reduce itching and clear up rough patches of skin.

* Use oral N-acetylcysteine to reduce itching.

Prevent

- Live a healthy lifestyle to control the disease, and stop rubbing and scratching.

- Apply a cool, wet compress, and use a bandage to protect the skin and prevent scratching, especially for those who tend to scratch while sleeping.

- Keep your nails short, take short warm showers, moisturize your skin, and use a mild soap that is free of dyes or fragrances.

- Limit the time and frequency of showering.

- After cleansing, gently pat your skin dry and apply an unscented moisturizer.

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