I wonder if itchiness may result in behavioral problems for horses, as well as children:
Psychological Problems in Children with Atopic Dermatitis Children with atopic dermatitis, especially those with severe disease, can develop behavioral and emotional problems from the very pruritic and disabling disease. However, few controlled studies have examined the prevalence and types of psychological disturbance or the problems experienced by parents of these patients. These investigators studied psychological problems in children aged 5 to 15 years with all degrees of atopic dermatitis. Thirty consecutive children with atopic eczema and a comparison group of 30 age-matched children with minor skin problems were evaluated by a child psychiatrist using a popular, standard questionnaire (Rutter A2 scale). The mother's mental distress and the family's social support were also assessed. Psychological disturbance was found in 50% of children with eczema versus 27% of controls. The rate of psychological disturbance was 53% in children with moderate eczema and 80% in those with severe eczema. The majority (80%) of atopic children with psychological problems had emotional disorders, while 20% had conduct problems. No increase in hyperactivity disorders was seen in the atopic group compared with controls. The degree of maternal emotional distress and family social support was similar in the two groups. Comment: The 60% rate of psychological disturbance in children with moderate and severe eczema combined is alarming. Previous studies have shown rates of 38% and 29% in children with leukemia and epilepsy, respectively, and management of these conditions usually involves some type of psychological assistance. Previous studies also have shown that attention to the emotional and behavioral problems in atopic patients can lead to improvement in the skin disease. In addition to the numerous topical and oral preparations we use when treating atopic children, we should enlist the help of our colleagues trained in psychological management.
