Immunohistochemical findings in notalgia paresthetica

Abstract

Background: Notalgia paresthetica (NP) is a sensory neuropathy the pathogenesis of which is not yet completely elucidated.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the histopathological changes in NP with special emphasis on cutaneous innervation.

Methods: Along with site-matched biopsies from 5 healthy individuals, lesional skin biopsies from 14 cases of NP and biopsies from contralateral nonlesional skin in 9 of these cases were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Congo red. For immunohistochemical analysis, all samples were stained with two general neural markers (S-100 protein and protein gene product 9.5) and two neuropeptides (vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and substance P).

Results: Light microscopy was compatible with postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Immunohistochemistry did not reveal a significant difference in the staining pattern of lesional skin and control tissue (p > 0.05). Although not reaching statistical significance, the percentage of cases which showed no staining was higher in the group of patients with more chronic NP.

Conclusion: The finding of less immunohistochemical staining in cases with more chronicity could be of clinical importance and is worth investigating further.