Erythema Ab Igne: A Rare Presentation of Toasted Skin Syndrome With the Use of a Space Heater

Abstract

Erythema ab igne, also known as toasted skin syndrome, is an acquired asymmetric hyperpigmented dermatosis that is caused by repeated exposure to moderate heat or infrared radiation. Hyperpigmentation is caused by the degeneration of elastic fibers and basal cells resulting in the release of melanin. Historically found in bakers and industrial workers, this condition has recently resurfaced in medical literature with the use of novel heat sources such as laptops and heated car seats. While this condition can resolve spontaneously after removal of heat exposure, delay in diagnosis and persistent exposure can lead to permanent pigmentation or progression to Merkel cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Bullous Erythema ab Igne Unexpected Biopsy: Answer

“…Dermal vessels are arranged in small lobules with associated hyalinization and fibroplasia; the endothelial cells may protrude into the vessel lumen. 5 The superficial nature of the vessels in EAI can be used as a clue to help distinguish this entity from cutaneous angiosarcoma. 6 In the setting of EAI, the atypical proliferation of endothelial cells is believed to result from damage secondary to chronic, long-standing heat exposure.…”

Case Report and Brief Review: A Case of Erythema Ab Igne Due to a Space Heater

“…Miller et al note that erythema ab igne has been described in association of the use of hot water bottles, heating pads and laptop computers [3]. A case of erythema ab igne is association with a space heater was described by Haleem [5].…”

Erythema ab igne in pediatric patients remote schooling during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A case series

“…Erythema ab igne (EAI) is a dermatosis caused by prolonged localized exposure to a heat source. 1 The rash is characterized by reticulated, erythematous, and subsequently hyperpigmented patches on the heat‐exposed area. 2 Most cases are asymptomatic and gradually self‐resolve following cessation of the heat exposure, but some may become chronic or rarely progress to cutaneous malignancy.…”

“…More recent reports have been linked to the use of heating pads, laptop computers, and space heaters. 1 , 4 In this report, we describe three pediatric patients who were diagnosed with EAI during a cold winter in the Midwestern United States while engaging in remote learning necessitated by the COVID‐19 pandemic.…”

“…Erythema ab igne (EAI) is a dermatosis caused by prolonged localized exposure to a heat source 1 . The rash is characterized by reticulated, erythematous, and subsequently hyperpigmented patches on the heat‐exposed area 2 .…”