Harvard Medical School researchers looking to understand the cause of many unspecified mystery skin itches have found a common bacteria releasing a nerve-activating enzyme may be a culprit in our urge to scratch.

Toronto

Researchers from Harvard Medical School have identified a potential cause for many unexplained skin itches. The team discovered that a common bacteria, known for releasing a nerve-activating enzyme, might be responsible for triggering the urge to scratch. This finding could lead to better understanding and treatment of persistent skin itches that have previously lacked a clear diagnosis.



Scientists uncover reason behind common itch

We all know the feeling, scratching that itch. But for some, it can be unbearable. This is the collection I've got here. For months now, James Tressler has been dealing with a chronic itch. It's on my sides, it's on the back, now it's on my thighs, then it's on my calves. Despite blood tests, multiple doctors visits, different creams, it's unclear what is triggering it. I don't have any dry skin, I don't have any rash marks, there's no redness. My skin looks perfectly healthy. The mystery of what causes that itchy feeling is one that researchers are working to understand. These bacteria are the ones driving the itch. At Harvard Medical School, some new clues. We were wondering, could certain microbes, when there are too many of them on the skin, actually trigger itch? The answer, yes. Researchers found a common bacteria can invade the skin, releasing an enzyme that activates nerves and sends a signal to the brain to scratch. It shows you that itching is, you know, triggered by the bacteria can be pretty damaging. That finding is prompting more research, including how to potentially block that reaction. I will see patients scratching their skin to the point they're bleeding in my office. One of the most common culprits of itch is eczema. 20% of children and 10% of adults experience the skin condition. But itching can also be a sign of serious problems, like liver or kidney disease. And the impact of itch goes far beyond the physical. Things like depression and anxiety have also been linked to poorly controlled itching. As for Trusler, he's trying new medication, but he's still itchy. It may be helping, maybe. And if it is, that's great. Maybe it's just wishful thinking. He hopes that with more research, more solutions are on the way for people like him. Tashana Reid, CBC News, Strathroy, Ontario.

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