Leiden University Scholarly Publications

Van Laarhoven, A.I.; Van der Sman-Mauriks, I.M.; Donders, A.R.; Pronk, M.C.; Van de Kerkhof, P.C.; Evers, A.W.M. 2015

Placebo effects on itch: a meta-analysis of clinical trials of patients with dermatological conditions

Article / Letter to editor

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Although placebo contributes to the effects of treatment for various symptoms and conditions, its effect on itch has rarely been investigated. In this meta-analysis, the magnitude of the placebo... Show moreAlthough placebo contributes to the effects of treatment for various symptoms and conditions, its effect on itch has rarely been investigated. In this meta-analysis, the magnitude of the placebo effect on itch was systematically investigated in clinical trials including patients with chronic itch due to atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or chronic idiopathic urticaria. From searches in four databases, 34 articles were included in the quantitative analyses. Placebo treatment significantly decreased itch (1.3 out of 10, 95% confidence interval 1.02-1.61) compared with baseline itch (effect size 0.55), indicating that placebo effects have a considerable role in these patients' treatment. Show less