The imagined itch: brain circuitry supporting nocebo-induced itch in atopic dermatitis patients.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Psychological factors are known to significantly modulate itch in patients suffering from chronic itch. Itch is also highly susceptible to both placebo and nocebo (negative placebo) effects. Brain activity likely supports nocebo-induced itch, but is currently unknown.

Methods

We collected functional MRI (fMRI) data from atopic dermatitis (AD) patients, in a within-subject design, and contrast brain response to nocebo saline understood to be allergen vs open-label saline control. Exploratory analyses compared results to real allergen itch response and placebo responsiveness, evaluated in the same patients.

Results

Nocebo saline produced greater itch than open saline control (P < 0.01). Compared to open saline, nocebo saline demonstrated greater fMRI response

SUBMITTER: Napadow V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4609272 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature