Chronic Itch-Scratch Behaviour is a Cognitive Phenomenon Mediated through Neuroendocrine Receptors

Chan Kam Tim Michael*¹, Tong Kwun Wah² and Hiu Kim Yuen²

Received: November 29, 2018;   Published: December 10, 2018

DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2018.11.002170

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Abstract

Chronic itch is a common and severe debilitating disease in our population with a significant health burden. Pharmacological treatments despite widely used has not been satisfactory especially in managing anxiety and stress. Identification of a specific itch pathway involving the brain and its cognitive domains and functional anatomy provide opportunities to develop effective, non-invasive man machine devices to rehabilitate chronic pruritic dermatosis. In the following article, evidences and details of the chronic itch scratch cognitive pathways will be presented. A method devised to distract pruritic patients during scratching behaviour through analysing the electromyographic (EMG) signals from muscle sensors to predict the itch gesture. With the assistance of Apps functions; non-invasive signals like melody, music or virtual reality will be broadcasted and feedback in a timely manner.

Keywords :Itch-Scratch Behaviour; Anatomical Pathways; Itch Specific Neurones; Cognition; Behavioural Psychotherapy; Man-Machine Interaction

Abbreviations : EMG: Electromyographic; AD: Atopic Dermatitis; PN: Prurigo Nodularis; DA: Dermatitis Artefacta; MRSA: Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus; CNS: Central Nervous System; CI: Central Nervous System; AI: Artificial Intelligence; PAR2: Protease-Activated Receptor 2; SLIGRL: Ser-Leu-Ile-Gly-Arg-Leu; DRG: Dorsal Root Of Ganglion; TRP1: Transient Receptor Potential vanilloid 1; TRA1: Transient Receptor Ankyrin 1; GRPC: Gastrin-Releasing Peptide Receptor; ET: Endothelin -1; NA: Noradrenaline; IFN-ϒ: Interferon-ϒ; SP: Substance P; NGF: Nerve Growth Factors; TSLP: Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin; NPPB: Natriuretic Polypeptide B; F-MRI: Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging; EMG: Electromyography; T-DCS: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation; R-TMS: Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; MRGPRS: Mas-related G protein-coupled receptors