Atmoknesis

Atmoknesis is an abnormal sensory state in which normally nonpruritogenic stimuli (such as exposure to air) not only induce but increase itching. The increased ability of the skin to respond with itching to tactile stimuli triggered by air movements is believed to be the determining factor in pruritus associated with insect bites, urticaria, xerosis cutis or atopic dermatitis. Like allocnesis, respiratory knees can be suppressed by local anaesthetics and reduced by cooling.

1. Akiyama T et al (2012) Mouse Model of Touch-Evoked Itch (Alloknesis). Journal of Investigative Dermatology 132: 1886-1891

2. Andersen HH et al (2018) Alloknesis and hyperknesis-mechanisms, assessment methodology, and clinical implications of itch sensitization. Pain 159:1185-1197.