What is neurodermatitis?

Neurodermatitis, also known as chronic simple lichen, is a common chronic skin disease. Its main characteristics are as follows:

1. Features: It commonly occurs in adults, especially women aged 30-50 years, and generally does not affect children. The main symptom is paroxysmal severe itching, commonly affecting areas such as the neck, elbows, waist, ankles, wrists, arms, forearms, lower legs, coccygeal region, and anus. The skin may exhibit lichenification, becoming rough and thickened, with scratch marks and blood crusts sometimes visible.

2. Causes: Neuropsychiatric factors such as emotional fluctuations, stress, tension, anxiety, and depression; physical stimuli like scratching and chronic friction may trigger or exacerbate the condition; other factors including gastrointestinal dysfunction, endocrine disorders, dietary irritants such as spicy foods and alcohol consumption may also be associated with the onset of the disease.

3. Treatment: Oral antipruritic medications, topical application of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching. For severe cases, treatment options may include local drug injections, oral antihistamines, intravenous drug therapy, and phototherapy.

Patients should maintain personal hygiene, avoid friction and irritation to prevent disease flare-ups and worsening. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is advised.