Sensations_of_skin_infestation_linked_to_abnormal_frontolimbic_brain_reactivity_and_differences_in_self-representation.pdf (884.39 kB)
Sensations of skin infestation linked to abnormal frontolimbic brain reactivity and differences in self-representation
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 22:07 authored by Jessica EcclesJessica Eccles, Sarah Garfinkel, Neil Harrison, J Ward, R E Taylor, A P Bewley, Hugo CritchleyHugo CritchleySome patients experience skin sensations of infestation and contamination that are elusive to proximate dermatological explanation. We undertook a functional magnetic resonance imaging study of the brain to demonstrate, for the first time, that central processing of infestation-relevant stimuli is altered in patients with such abnormal skin sensations. We show differences in neural activity within amygdala, insula, middle temporal lobe and frontal cortices. Patients also demonstrated altered measures of self-representation, with poorer sensitivity to internal bodily (interoceptive) signals and greater susceptibility to take on an illusion of body ownership: the rubber hand illusion. Together, these findings highlight a potential model for the maintenance of abnormal skin sensations, encompassing heightened threat processing within amygdala, increased salience of skin representations within insula and compromised prefrontal capacity for self-regulation and appraisal.
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Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
NeuropsychologiaISSN
0028-3932Publisher
ElsevierVolume
77Page range
90-96Department affiliated with
- BSMS Neuroscience Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2015-08-13First Open Access (FOA) Date
2016-11-01First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2015-08-13Usage metrics
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