Do Acupuncture Meridians Exist? Correlation with Referred Itch (Mitempfindung) Stimulus and Referral Points

Abstract

Objective To describe the relationship between referred itch (mitempfindung) stimulus and referral points and acupuncture meridians, noting that the neuroanatomical mechanism of mitempfindung has never previously been satisfactorily explained. Methods Analysis of clinical findings in the author as well as subjects in four previously described studies, comparing proportions in each of five groups. Results Ninety-two per cent (range 85–94%) of mitempfindung point pairs (stimulus and referral) aligned to a recognised acupuncture meridian with no statistical difference (p<0.05) between the five data sources. Conclusion While previous authors have speculated on an association between mitempfindung and acupuncture, this is the first description of a relationship between stimulus and referral points and acupuncture meridians. The author suggests that the transmission of mitempfindung along acupuncture meridians may involve a series of C-fibre–Merkel cell relays, with the final referred itch sensation caused by substance P release triggering mast cell degranulation.