What does neurodermatitis look like?

Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
Updated on December 02, 2024
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Neurodermatitis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by paroxysmal severe itching and lichenoid changes in the skin. Its early symptoms mainly manifest as flat papules the size of pinheads or grains of rice, with a small amount of coagulation on top. These generally are distributed over areas such as the neck, sacral region, elbows, knees, inner thighs, perineum, perianal region, and eyelids. Over time, the rashes may merge into large patches, and the affected skin becomes thickened and rough, accompanied by intense itching.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Why get neurodermatitis?

The causes of neurodermatitis are not yet fully understood. It is generally believed to be related to several factors: 1. Neuro-psychiatric factors, such as irritability, anxiety, tension, sadness, fatigue, insomnia, etc.; 2. Local skin irritation, for example, friction from shirt collars, desks, contact with chemical substances, localized infections, sweat soak, localized sun exposure, etc.; 3. Dietary factors, such as drinking alcohol, consuming spicy foods, seafood, and other potential triggers; 4. Gastrointestinal dysfunction; 5. Endocrine disorders, and more. These reasons may contribute to the development of neurodermatitis.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Treatment methods for neurodermatitis

The treatment of neurodermatitis includes three aspects. The first aspect is instructing patients to avoid various stimuli such as scratching and rubbing and providing certain psychological treatments to break the vicious cycle of itching and scratching. The second aspect involves the use of topical medications. Depending on the characteristics and location of the rash, appropriate use of steroid ointments and anti-itch moisturizing creams is advised, and occlusive treatment methods may be employed in severe cases. If the rash covers a large area or is widespread, options like ultraviolet light exposure, medicinal baths, or mineral baths can be considered. The third aspect is the treatment with systemic medications, which may include oral antihistamines, calcium supplements, vitamin C, and so on.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can laser treat neurodermatitis effectively?

Neurodermatitis is a type of allergic disease, mostly developed from dermatitis, eczema, or common allergic reactions. It is generally treated with oral and topical medications, which can control or cure the condition. There is generally no need for laser treatment. Although the skin of neurodermatitis may thicken and proliferate, and the treatment results may be slow, laser treatment can cause extensive damage to the epidermis, making it more difficult to heal later. It is essential to receive proper treatment in the dermatology department of a regular hospital for neurodermatitis. Instead of using laser, treatment can include oral and topical medications, along with options like red or blue light therapy or liquid nitrogen freezing. After recovery, it's important to regulate your diet and lifestyle habits, avoid staying up late, exercise appropriately, and not wash with hot water.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Is neurodermatitis a fungus?

Neurodermatitis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by episodic intense itching and lichenoid changes in the skin. The main causes are likely related to neuropsychiatric factors, diet, local skin irritation, gastrointestinal dysfunction, endocrine disorders, and many other factors. It has no relationship with fungi. If the skin is infected by fungi, common diseases include tinea capitis, tinea pedis, tinea unguium, tinea cruris, tinea corporis, and so on.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Can people with neurodermatitis eat lamb?

Neurodermatitis, also known as chronic simple lichen, is a common chronic inflammatory disease characterized by paroxysmal severe itching and lichenoid skin changes. Its causes may be related to neuropsychiatric factors, gastrointestinal dysfunction, endocrine disorders, local skin irritation, diet, and other factors. In Chinese medicine, mutton is considered a warm and hot product. It has the effects of nourishing the kidney and strengthening yang, benefiting qi and blood, and dispelling wind and cold. For this reason, it is also considered a "triggering food." Therefore, in clinical practice, we recommend that patients with neurodermatitis should be cautious in consuming mutton, dog meat, and other warm and dry products.