Relationship between scalp histamine levels and dandruff within an Indian population: A confirmation study using LC/MS/MS method

Abstract

Dandruff, a very common scalp problem, is a persistent and relapsing disorder that affects almost half of the postpubertal population, irrespective of ethnicity and gender. It is caused by both microbial and non-microbial factors [1][2][3] and is characterised by an increased abnormal desquamation of the scalp, sub-clinical inflammatory reaction and itching. 4 The abnormal desquamation clinically appears as diffuse or localised patches of fine, loosely adherent white or grey flakes. 5 Scalp seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a more severe manifestation of dandruff that is associated with severe itching, clinically visible erythema and inflammation. In addition to scalp, it can also affect face, retroauricular area and upper chest. The causative mechanisms for itching and flaking in dandruff and SD are not fully understood.Histamine is known for its role in allergic inflammatory and immune reactions. [6][7][8] Increased levels of histamine were found associated with dandruff, SD, itching and few other skin disorders such as dry skin and psoriasis. [9][10][11] Previous data suggest that histamine could be a major triggering factor of itching sensations frequently associated with dandruff/ SD. 1 In the skin, histamine is synthesized by mast cells (present in the dermis) and keratinocytes. 12,13 Several non-invasive techniques have been reported to measure histamine level on skin and scalp surface. 1,11,14,15 | QUE S TIONS ADDRE SS EDThe objectives of this study were 1) To implement non-invasive sampling and its analytical technique for quantifying histamine in

Plasma level of beta endorphin in seborrheic dermatitis patients

“…10 Classical itching mechanisms involve histamine release by IgE activation of mast cells in response to allergens. SD patients have a significant increase in histamine 16 and cathepsin S in the blood. 17 High levels of histamine increase BE in cerebrospinal fluid, 18 but the direct influence of BE on histamine release remains unclear.…”

The power of observational medicine over the epidemiology of seborrheic dermatitis

“…Since 2011, three publications have demonstrated the presence of histamine locally in seborrheic dermatitis (12,13,14). We know that histamine is a mediator released by tissue mast cells causing redness and itching (15).…”

Letter to the editor regarding “Analysis of the epidemiology, coexisting skin diseases, and variables affecting seborrheic dermatitis severity”

“…Since 2011, three publications have demonstrated the presence of histamine locally in seborrheic dermatitis [8][9][10]. We know that histamine is a mediator released by tissue mast cells causing redness and itching [11].…”