Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) patients' quality of life is severely
affected by neuropathic pain and itch, which have recently been demonstrated to be secondary
to skin small fiber neuropathy. To date, there is no evidence on what the best agent is to
control these symptoms. Based on the anecdotal data and safety profile, the investigators
believe that pregabalin is a therapeutic agent that will be effective and safe in this
population. The investigators propose to conduct a blinded study, using pregabalin versus
placebo in which each patient serves as its own control (cross-over design). This is a
feasibility study that will provide preliminary data on efficacy and safety of pregabalin in
RDEB patients with neuropathic pain and itch and gather much needed data (dosage, titration
schedule, outcome measures, etc) to inform the design of a larger cohort, controlled,
multicenter trial.