What trace element is lacking in neurodermatitis?

Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
Updated on December 18, 2024
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Neurodermatitis, also known as chronic simple lichen, is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease marked by periodic severe itching and lichen-like changes in the skin due to neurological dysfunction. The exact causes of neurodermatitis are still unclear. It is not merely related to deficiencies in certain trace elements. It is generally considered to be related to an imbalance in the excitatory and inhibitory functions of the cerebral cortex, possibly linked to mental stress such as impatience, excessive contemplation, depression, fatigue, and insomnia. Some patients' conditions may be associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction, endocrine disruption, an unbalanced diet including excessive alcohol consumption, intake of spicy foods, shellfish, etc., as well as local irritants like rigid collars, wool plants, chemicals, and scratching. All these internal and external factors play a role. The treatment of neurodermatitis mainly focuses on avoiding various irritants such as scratching and friction. Psychological therapies also assist by breaking the vicious cycle of scratching and itching. The primary treatment approach involves topical medications, supplemented by traditional Chinese medicine. Systemic medications might include antihistamines for itching relief, along with supplements like calcium, vitamin C, thiamine, and various B vitamins, all of which aid in recovery.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Early symptoms of neurodermatitis

The early symptoms of neurodermatitis primarily manifest as small, flat polygonal papules the size of pinpoints or rice grains on the skin of the neck, sacral area, elbows, inner thighs, perineum, and around the anus. These can appear red, light red, or light brown and are relatively hard in texture. The surface may have a small amount of coagulated blood. Due to episodic severe itching, a vicious cycle of itching, scratching, more itching, and more scratching occurs during the course of the disease, which can lead to the merging of rashes into large patches.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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What ointment to apply for neurodermatitis?

Neurodermatitis, also known as chronic simple lichen, is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by episodic severe itching and lichenoid skin changes. The characteristic skin lesions mainly consist of polygonal, flat papules that range in color from pale red, pale brown to normal skin tone. They are relatively hard and shiny with a small amount of scale on the surface. Over time, the lesions can merge into plaques, and the local skin becomes thickened and rough with lichen-like changes. Therefore, in clinical practice, various topical medications are rationally used based on the characteristics, types, and locations of these lesions. The common types of topical medications include glucocorticoid ointments, tar ointments, and moisturizing antipruritic ointments. Commonly used medications include hydrocortisone butyrate ointment, desonide ointment, mometasone furoate ointment, halometasone ointment, fluticasone propionate ointment, 10% black soybean distillate ointment, 5%-10% Konju butter or coal tar ointment, pine distillate ointment, urea vitamin E ointment, etc.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Symptoms of neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis is a common skin disease characterized primarily by cracked or leather-like rashes, frequently occurring on the eyelids, neck, hands, and also on the trunk of the body. Patients often experience episodic itching, which can intensify and become more noticeable during periods of prolonged sleep deprivation, emotional instability, or high stress. Neurodermatitis can severely affect the quality of life and emotional well-being of patients, and it is crucial to seek timely treatment.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Does neurodermatitis affect pregnancy?

Neurodermatitis, also known as chronic simple lichen, is a common chronic inflammatory dermatoneurosis characterized by paroxysmal severe itching and lichenoid changes in the skin. The cause of the disease may be related to various internal and external factors such as neuropsychiatric factors, gastrointestinal dysfunction, endocrine disorders, diet, and local skin irritation. Women with neurodermatitis can become pregnant, but the severe itching associated with neurodermatitis can lead to adverse reactions in the mental and sleep states of pregnant women, so it is recommended that pregnant women with neurodermatitis should seek active treatment.

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

Neurodermatitis, also known as chronic simple lichen, is a common chronic inflammatory dermatosis characterized by episodic severe itching and lichenoid changes in the skin. The cause of this condition may be related to various internal and external factors including neuropsychiatric factors, gastrointestinal dysfunction, endocrine disorders, local skin irritation, and diet. Therefore, we generally advise patients with neurodermatitis to minimize alcohol consumption, avoid spicy and hot foods, and restrict intake of fish, shrimp, crab, and other seafood that may exacerbate the condition.