Scalp dysesthesia

Scalp dysesthesia
Synonyms	Scalp burning syndrome
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Burning sensation, itching, pain on the scalp
Complications	Hair loss
Onset	Adulthood
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Psychological stress, neuropathic pain, dermatological conditions
Risks	Anxiety, depression, stress
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis, exclusion of other conditions
Differential diagnosis	Contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, trichodynia
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Topical corticosteroids, antidepressants, gabapentin
Medication	Amitriptyline, gabapentin, topical steroids
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Unknown
Deaths	N/A

Scalp dysesthesia is a cutaneous syndrome first described in 1998 in 11 patients. It is characterized by pain or discomfort in the skin of the scalp or back of the neck, often described as burning or tingling, or as a tight feeling or pressure. The pain is often severe and unrelenting. It is most common in middle-aged or elderly women.

Causes

The cause of scalp dysesthesia is not well understood. It is thought to be a form of neuropathic pain, which is pain caused by damage or disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system. Some researchers believe it may be related to depression or anxiety, while others believe it may be related to menopause or hormonal changes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of scalp dysesthesia is based on the patient's symptoms and a physical examination. There are no specific tests for this condition. The diagnosis is often made by ruling out other possible causes of the patient's symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for scalp dysesthesia is focused on managing the patient's symptoms. This may include pain management techniques such as medication, physical therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy. Some patients may find relief with topical treatments such as capsaicin cream.

See also

• Cutaneous condition
• Neuropathic pain
• Somatosensory system