pilomotor reflex /pī′lōmō″tər/ [L, pilus, hair, motor, mover, reflectere, to bend back] , erection of the hairs of the skin caused by contraction of small involuntary arrector muscles (arrectores pilorum) in response to a chilly environment, emotional stimulus, or skin irritation. This normal reaction is abolished below the level of a transverse spinal cord lesion and may be exaggerated on the affected side in a patient with hemiplegia. Also called gooseflesh, horripilation, piloerection.
