An itchy skin rash on the backs of the knees and the insides of the elbows [After Ernest Besnier (1831-1909), French dermatologist].
A condition marked by severe, sudden bouts of itching, often worsening at night and displaying seasonal variations, while proving highly resistant to treatment. It is frequently accompanied by other conditions like asthma, hay fever, migraines, or urticaria. There is a notable connection between this condition and emotional states. The skin eruptions primarily affect areas like the elbows, knees, face, and neck, resulting in skin thickening, pigmentation changes, roughness, and the presence of papules. Typically, this condition begins in childhood, and individuals with it are often sensitive and highly strung, potentially having dry skin. It is likely an inherited condition. With careful management, some improvement can be anticipated, and there is often a positive change during puberty. However, the tendency to relapse can persist throughout life, and the condition may manifest itself during times of emotional stress.