Allodynia

Allodynia

Allodynia (/ˌæləˈdɪniə/; from Greek allo-, "other", and odyne, "pain") is a type of pain that is caused by stimuli which do not normally provoke pain.

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˌæləˈdɪniə/

Etymology

The term Allodynia is derived from the Greek words allo-, meaning "other", and odyne, meaning "pain".

Definition

Allodynia refers to a condition in which ordinary, non-painful stimuli such as touch or temperature can cause pain. This is different from hyperalgesia, an increased response to painful stimuli.

Types of Allodynia

There are three main types of Allodynia:

• Tactile Allodynia: This type is pain caused by touch. For example, a light brush against the skin that should not cause pain, does cause pain.
• Thermal Allodynia: This type is pain caused by temperature changes. For example, mild changes in temperature that should not cause pain, do cause pain.
• Mechanical Allodynia: This type is pain caused by pressure. For example, a light pressure that should not cause pain, does cause pain.

Causes

Allodynia is often caused by damage to nociceptors or due to disease conditions such as neuropathy, migraine, postherpetic neuralgia, and fibromyalgia.

Treatment

Treatment for Allodynia is typically aimed at treating the underlying cause. This may include medications such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or analgesics.

Related Terms

• Hyperalgesia
• Neuropathic Pain
• Nociceptive Pain
• Chronic Pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Neuropathy
• Migraine
• Postherpetic Neuralgia

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Allodynia
• Wikipedia's article - Allodynia

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