Erythema ab igne

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Erythema ab igne
File:Hotbottlerash.JPG
Synonyms	Hot water bottle rash, fire stains, toasted skin syndrome
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Dermatology
Symptoms	Reticular erythematous rash
Complications	N/A
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	Chronic exposure to infrared radiation or heat
Risks	Chronic pain, skin cancer
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis
Differential diagnosis	Livedo reticularis, cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Avoidance of heat source, topical treatments
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with avoidance of heat
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Erythema Ab Igne (EAI)

Erythema Ab Igne (EAI), commonly referred to as hot water bottle rash, is a skin condition resulting from long-term exposure to heat or infrared radiation. This prolonged exposure can cause specific changes in the skin, typically in areas where the skin is heated repeatedly.

File:Erythema ab igne, right leg, detail.jpg

Erythema Ab Igne on the skin

Causes

• EAI is caused by chronic exposure to moderate heat that is insufficient to cause a burn but strong enough to induce skin changes.
• Common sources include hot water bottles, heating pads, and laptops placed on laps.

Symptoms and Characteristics

• The condition is characterized by reticulated erythema, hyperpigmentation, scaling, and telangiectasias in the affected area.
• Mild itchiness and a burning sensation may occur.
• In many cases, EAI is asymptomatic and may go unnoticed until visible skin changes appear.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of EAI is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the skin and the patient's history of heat exposure.
• Dermatological examination is used to rule out other skin conditions.

Treatment and Management

• The most effective treatment is the removal of the heat source to prevent further skin damage.
• Topical treatments may help in reducing symptoms and improving skin appearance.
• In some cases, laser therapy might be considered for cosmetic reasons.

Prevention

• Prevention involves avoiding prolonged direct exposure to heat sources.
• Using barriers or protective layers between the skin and heat sources can reduce the risk.

Potential Complications

• Chronic EAI can lead to permanent skin changes.
• In rare cases, there's a risk of skin cancer developing in the affected areas.

See Also

• Skin Conditions
• Dermatology
• Radiation Injuries

External Links

• American Academy of Dermatology: Diseases & Conditions
• National Center for Biotechnology Information: Erythema Ab Igne