How stress causes an eczema flare up

image via New Scientist

March 22, 2026, 12:00 PM

• •Stress can trigger and worsen eczema flare-ups.
• •Researchers identified neurons that activate immune cells in the skin in response to stress.
• •The study used a mouse model of atopic dermatitis.
• •Blocking stress-responsive nerves could be a potential treatment.

Researchers have identified a network of neurons that connect stress to eczema flare-ups. This network activates immune cells in the skin, causing inflammation and worsening symptoms. The study, using a mouse model, found that stress increased the severity of eczema. Blocking these stress-responsive neurons could lead to targeted treatments for eczema.

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