Final answer:
IL-31 is a cytokine implicated in causing inflammation and itch, especially in skin conditions like eczema. Corticosteroid creams, containing hydrocortisone, can reduce symptoms such as itchiness by suppressing histamine production but do not treat the underlying cause of the rash.
Step-by-step explanation:
IL-31 is a cytokine that is involved in triggering inflammation and itch responses, particularly associated with conditions like eczema. It can be released by immune cells during an allergic reaction or other immune responses and is capable of inducing pruritus, contributing to discomfort felt by individuals with skin conditions. In the context of eczema, treatments often include moisturizers and corticosteroid creams like hydrocortisone, which are aimed at reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms such as itching by suppressing the production of histamine and other chemical mediators responsible for the inflammatory response.
The presence of IL-31 and other cytokines in the skin can lead to aggravation of eczema symptoms. However, it is important to note that while corticosteroid creams such as those containing hydrocortisone can provide symptom relief, they do not address the underlying cause of the rash but rather the symptoms by suppressing the immune response locally.