An itch (pruritus) is a sensation in the skin that elicits the desire to scratch. Itching is caused by an irritation of the nerve endings for pain and touch, sometimes accompanied by inflammation or skin eruptions. The difference between itching and pain is one of degree; a lowered threshold for stimulation in skin areas around the site of irritation usually leads to itching and scratching. The cause of the irritation may be mechanical, such as a chafing collar; biochemical, such as an allergic reaction or an insect bite or due to invasions of the skin, such as the fungus infection ringworm or the mite infestation scabies. A persistent itch may be a symptom of some systemic disease, such as a liver disorder. Research Itch
The Probert Encyclopaedia was designed, edited and programed by
Matt and Leela Probert
Abbreviations
Medicine
Research Itch
