Scientists unravel mechanisms in chronic itching

(Washington University School of Medicine) New research at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis shows that chronic itching, which can occur in many medical conditions, is different from the urge to scratch a mosquito bite. Chronic itching appears to incorporate more than just the nerve cells that normally transmit itch signals. In chronic itching, neurons that send itch signals also co-opt pain neurons to intensify the itch sensation.
Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - Category: Global & Universal Source Type: news