Pittsburgh Study Finds Scratching Raises Inflammation as It Cuts Staph aureus Bacteria
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 4
Pittsburgh Study Finds Scratching Raises Inflammation as It Cuts Staph aureus Bacteria
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 4
Summary
University of Pittsburgh researchers found scratching itchy skin in mice activated mast cells, increased inflammation and prolonged the itch-scratch cycle, even though it briefly relieved irritation.
Substance P released during scratching triggered more mast-cell activity; mice blocked from scratching with collars or engineered to lack itch-sensing neurons showed less inflammation.
The team also found scratching lowered levels of Staphylococcus aureus, suggesting the behavior may offer some defense against bacterial skin infection despite damaging the skin.
Published in Science last year, the study helps explain why scratching feels rewarding while potentially worsening chronic conditions such as eczema; dermatologists instead recommend cold compresses or 1% hydrocortisone cream.