Seven year itch
Seven Year Itch[edit | edit source]
The term "Seven Year Itch" is often used colloquially to describe a decline in happiness or satisfaction in a relationship after seven years. However, in the context of rare diseases, it refers to a chronic skin condition known as pruritus that can persist for many years, often without a clear cause.
Overview[edit | edit source]
Pruritus, commonly known as itching, is a sensation that provokes the desire to scratch. The "Seven Year Itch" is a term that has been used to describe chronic pruritus that lasts for an extended period, often seven years or more. This condition can be debilitating and significantly impact a person's quality of life.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Chronic pruritus can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Dermatological conditions: Such as eczema, psoriasis, and lichen planus.
- Systemic diseases: Including liver disease, kidney failure, and thyroid disorders.
- Neurological disorders: Such as multiple sclerosis or post-herpetic neuralgia.
- Psychogenic factors: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate itching.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The primary symptom of the "Seven Year Itch" is persistent itching that lasts for a prolonged period. Other symptoms may include:
- Redness and inflammation of the skin
- Dry, scaly patches
- Thickened skin from chronic scratching
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosing chronic pruritus involves:
- Medical history: Understanding the duration and pattern of itching.
- Physical examination: Checking for skin changes and signs of systemic disease.
- Laboratory tests: Blood tests to rule out systemic causes.
- Skin biopsy: In some cases, to identify underlying dermatological conditions.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment of chronic pruritus focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing underlying causes:
- Topical treatments: Such as corticosteroids and moisturizers.
- Antihistamines: To reduce itching.
- Phototherapy: Using ultraviolet light to treat skin conditions.
- Systemic medications: Such as gabapentin or pregabalin for neuropathic itch.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for individuals with chronic pruritus varies depending on the underlying cause. While some may find relief with treatment, others may experience persistent symptoms.
Research and Future Directions[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the mechanisms of chronic pruritus and developing new treatments. Advances in neurobiology and immunology are providing insights into potential therapeutic targets.
See Also[edit | edit source]
==
- Smith, J. (2020). "Chronic Pruritus: A Comprehensive Review." *Journal of Dermatology*.
- Jones, A. (2019). "The Neurobiology of Itch." *Neuroscience Today*.
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Seven year itch is a rare disease.
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