Erythema ab igne is a reticular, telangiectatic, and pigmented dermatosis that occurs due to repeated and prolonged exposure to infrared radiation, which is insufficient in intensity to cause burns. ICD-10 Code: L59.0
In the past, erythema ab igne was quite common in people who spent long evenings near an open fire or fireplace. Another cause may be prolonged use of a heating pad on the same area of the skin, for example in cases of lumbar pain. This condition may also develop in foundry workers on the skin of the hands or in silversmiths on the skin of the face.
A single exposure to sub-threshold intensity infrared radiation may cause transient reticular erythema. Repeated exposures may result in more pronounced erythema with hyperpigmentation and sometimes superficial epidermal atrophy. The result of multiple and prolonged exposures resembles poikiloderma with reticular telangiectasia, melanosis and diffuse hyperkeratosis. The localization of the dermatosis is determined by the site of exposure. Subjective sensations are usually absent, but occasionally a burning or itching sensation may occur.
In the vast majority of cases, the diagnosis is not difficult and is based on clinical data.
- Livedo reticularis
- Cutis marmorata
- Livedo racemosa
- Confluent and reticulated papillomatosis
- Livedoid vasculopathy
- Sneddon syndrome
- Prurigo pigmentosa
There is no specific therapy. The mainstay of treatment is the earliest possible removal of the heat source and discontinuation of exposure to infrared radiation. Removal of the source of radiation, even without treatment, leads to resolution of eruptions over time.