Alloknesis mechanical T78.4

Mechanical alloknesis is a form of itch sensitization in which common mechanical stimuli (e.g. the touch of clothing) lead to itching that would not normally cause itching.

This syndrome is often based on a "sensitive skin syndrome", which is often a manifestation of a small-fiber neuropathy.

It is not uncommon for people to complain of skin irritation caused by seams and labels on items of clothing (reverse underwear sign). In these cases, it is recommended that these are taped over.

1. Anderson HH et al. (2018) Alloknesis and hyperknesis-mechanisms, assessment methodology, and clinical implications of itch sensitization. Pain 159:1185-1197. di
2. Brull SJ et al. (1999) Attenuation of experimental pruritus and mechanically evoked dysesthesiae in an area of cutaneous allodynia. Somatosens Mot Res 16:299-303.
3. Ständer S et akl. (2022) S2k guideline: Diagnosis and treatment of chronic pruritus. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 20:1387-1402.