Eczema

Scratching the Surface: New Insights into Eczema Itch

This article was medically reviewed by Tess Thomas, DO, ABFM.

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One of the defining characteristics of eczema - its itchiness - may now be helping scientists unlock a treatment. Sure, scratching that itch might give a moment of relief, but it can also lead to skin damage and infections, and make the inflammation worse. It's a vicious cycle eczema patients know all too well, messing with wellness, sleep and the ability to enjoy everyday activities.

But there might be hope on the horizon. Research published in the journal Cell delves deep into how a specific skin microbe could be the culprit behind eczema itch. Experts are hoping that this discovery could lead to new treatments that stop itching at its source.

Microbes Mark The Spot

Our skin, besides being the body's largest organ, hosts a diverse microbial community. These microbes, including bacteria and fungi, can either be good or bad, depending on the balance.

Experts at Harvard Medical School looked closely at how one particularly "bad" bacteria, known as S. aureus, could be linked to the feeling of itchiness in skin. They found that an enzyme produced by the bacteria turned out to be the mastermind behind the itch. Guess which bacteria is most commonly found in eczema flare-ups? S. aureus.

Groundbreaking Discovery

Using this knowledge, the team tried blocking different skin receptors to see which one was responding to the itchy enzyme. They eventually found that blocking the PAR1 receptor not only decreased the itch but also reduced skin damage caused by S. aureus.

Researchers are hopeful their discovery will open doors to new eczema treatments, like a topical cream designed to block the PAR1 receptor. Further use of their work could even target other causes of itching, helping people everywhere achieve and maintain healthy skin.

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