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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to Treat Chronic Pruritus
Sponsor: University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
Summary
Pruritus is a common symptom of numerous dermatological and non-dermatological conditions. Current treatments for chronic pruritus (CP) are often not fully effective and may have burdensome side effects. Recently, the trauma exposure technique Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) that is recommended as first line treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder has been reported to be also effective in the treatment of CP in anecdotal clinical case observations. However, to the best of the investigator's knowledge, the efficacy of EMDR in CP has not yet been systematically explored. This study aims at addressing this unmet need in a prospective pilot study comparing EMDR versus treatment as usual (TAU).
Official title: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to Treat Chronic Pruritus in a Multidisciplinary Tertiary Care Setting- a Feasibility Study
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 75 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
30
Start Date
2025-03
Completion Date
2026-09
Last Updated
2025-01-13
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
EMDR is a psychotherapeutic approach originally designed for individuals suffering from trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It facilitates the processing of memories through a structured eight-phase treatment, involving the patient's focused attention on traumatic images, thoughts, and sensations while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements. This process aims to reduce the emotional distress associated with aversive memories, promoting adaptive coping mechanisms and psychological healing. Recently, the indications for the method have been extended so that EMDR is also used for chronic pain and depressive disorders.
Locations (1)
University Hospital Basel
Basel, Switzerland