Notalgia paréstesica; el paradigma del prurito neuropático. Descripción de seis casos

Abstract

The notalgia paresthetica is a chronic sensory neuropathy, characterized by intense pain and/or itching in the upper or middle back, typically below the left shoulder. Usually associated hyperpigmentation area in the affected area, or close to it. Although the aetiology has not been established with certainty, has been explained by two reasons: Either by a central degenerative process, or by a process of peripheral nerve entrapment at that level. There is not standardized treatment available, but is usually treated as any other process with neuropathic pain or itching. We present six typical cases of notalgia paresthetica, together with a review of the literature, with special emphasis on the different theories that try to explain the pathophysiology of this entity.