Erythema Ab Igne

As it gets colder and everyone starts bringing out their space heaters and heating pads, it’s time to revisit a common skin care problem – Erythema ab Igne.

What is it?  Erythema ab igne is the description of the changes on the skin that occur from chronic exposure to infrared radiation in the form of heat.  

Where is it most commonly seen? Erythema ab igne is most seen on a few places of the body. On the lower legs where a space heater is blowing on the legs.  On the anterior thighs from holding a laptop.  Most frequentlyit is seen on the back from using a heating pad.  

Why the long name?   When I first started in dermatology, I thought these long names were designed to deter my learning, but now I just think they’re fun.  Erythema means redness.  Ab means from.  Igne means fire.  Redness from fire.  

What does it look like? Erythema ab igne describes a red-purple discoloration in a net like pattern.  Sometime the skin is dry and scaling as well. White and brown discoloration is seen in more advanced and chronic cases.  

How is it prevented? It is preventable by avoiding low level concentrated heat.  It can also help to place a barrier between the heat and the skin.  

How is it treated? There is no real treatment.  In initial stages, a topical steroid may be helpful to reduce inflammation.  However, there is no treatment for the chronic discoloration of the skin.  Reducing exposure to heat in the affected area, may allow the skin to recover, but this often takes months and years.

Is it dangerous?  Not really.  The biggest complaint is the physical appearance of the skin.  In the long run there is a slight increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma in any site of chronic injury or inflammation, so that is a theoretical but uncommon sequela. 

If you know someone who is exposed to chronic low level heat, please share this article with them to avoid the changes in the skin.   I know it is getting cold outside, but try to avoid aiming space heaters directly at the skin or body.  

Want to learn more about other dermatology conditions with long names.  Here’s a few good ones to sharpen your dermatology vocabulary. 

If you would like to learn more about nails and nail care, see our articles below.

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