Be careful with direct heat sources: prolonged exposure can damage the skin and trigger a skin reaction
During winter, the cold continually pushes us to search for available heat sources, be it radiators, air conditioners, fireplaces or stoves, up to modern fan heaters. Precisely the latter can hide pitfalls, given that direct heat sources, if in contact with the skin for a prolonged period of time, can cause a condition known as erythema ab igneotherwise called “toasted skin syndrome” or “fire spots”, a dermatosis which in the past mainly affected those who worked in direct contact with heat, such as cooks and bakers, and which is making a comeback due to the use of modern devices such as laptops, electric blankets, heated seats and fan heaters, often in contact with the skin for too long.
Erythema ab igne originates from the constant exposure of the skin to moderate but persistent heat sources, and has its own explanation in the name: in Latin it means “fire redness” and perfectly describes the effect that occurs, i.e. a of red or brown spots that intertwine on the skin, almost reminiscent of a design made with the lace technique.
Symptoms and famous cases
A 2020 case highlights the seriousness of the situation. A 48-year-old woman went to her doctor for lesions on her legs, and after a careful analysis, the connection between the spots and the prolonged use of a fan heater, placed by the woman under the desk, became clear. common habit among those who work in cold environments.
Erythema ab igne is not immediately recognisable, and can often be confused with other dermatological conditions or, even worse, with symptoms of skin cancer, causing the correct diagnosis to be delayed.
The most common symptom of this pathology, as noted above, involves the appearance of a rash that resembles a fishing net or a lace pattern, initially pink, but which can evolve into darker tones such as red, purple or brown.
The aesthetic aspect is not the only one to cause concern, because it is also accompanied by itching, burning and even tingling. The syndrome also appears to affect middle-aged women more frequently, particularly those who are overweight.
In more severe cases, the spots can leave permanent scars, while the persistence of the condition, if underestimated, can even increase the risk of developing skin cancer. However, we must underline that, despite its sometimes alarming appearance, erythema ab igne tends to resolve spontaneously, as long as further exposure to heat is avoided.
Prevention and treatment
How can we avoid the development of erythema ab igne? By implementing some simple ones precautions:
In case the erythema ab igne has already appeared, there are some dermatological treatments to relieve its symptoms. Creams based on retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are often used to help restore the skin, although there are contraindications, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Early treatment, combined with removal from the heat source, represents the most effective strategy to avoid complications.
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