The 'itch-to-brain' circuit, neural change and depression
Medical Xpress
March 4, 2026
People who suffer from chronic itching in the form of atopic dermatitis (AD) are seven times more likely to develop a major depressive disorder. This link is well established, but the "why" remains elusive. Are the depressive symptoms simply due to inflammation, sleep disruption, and the psychological distress of living with chronic illness? Or is it possible that AD could be somehow changing the brain itself?
Verticals
healthmedical
Originally published on Medical Xpress on 3/4/2026