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Papers of the Week


Papers: 24 Aug 2019 - 30 Aug 2019

PAIN TYPE:
Itch


2019 Dec 01


Acta Derm Venereol


99


13

Skin Barrier Damage and Itch: Review of Mechanisms, Topical Management and Future Directions.

Authors

Yosipovitch G, Misery L, Proksch E, Metz M, Ständer S, Schmelz M
Acta Derm Venereol. 2019 Dec 01; 99(13):1201-1209.
PMID: 31454051.

Abstract

Barrier damage, dry skin and itch are intricately linked and form the basis of many common skin diseases. Damage from environmental insults, or genetic or inflammatory causes, can impair the skin barrier, resulting in an increase in transepidermal water loss and activation of itch-associated nerve fibres. The itch-scratch cycle can perpetuate skin barrier damage and itch. Topical therapeutic strategies are utilised to overcome dry skin and itch, primarily in the form of emollients. Recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying itch have enabled the development of new topical therapies, which may be incorporated into existing treatment regimes. Ultimately, treatment of dry skin and itch must be highly tailored to the individual according to their needs.