Haut, nerven, juckreiz - Vom rezeptor zum gehirn

Itch, one of the most important symptoms in dermatology and allergology, is elicited when a chemical stimulation of C-fibers occurs at the dermal-epidermal junction. The conduction velocity to the central nervous system is extremely slow. C-fibers are also involved in cutaneous neuroimmunoregulation. Itch sensation and perception have many dimensions and can only partially be described by visual analog scales. Patterns of cortical activation by itch include frontal areas, sensory and motor cortex, and the limbic system. The intention to scratch is mirrored by activation of motor areas. Other involved areas probably play a role in emotional processing of the sensation. Itch has central nervous and peripheral aspects. Both should be regarded as important targets for therapy.