Erythema ab igne facts for kids

Erythema ab igne (say: eh-rih-THEE-muh ab IG-nee) is a special kind of rash that shows up on your skin. It happens when your skin has been exposed to heat for a long time, but it's not a burn. Think of it as your skin's way of showing it's been "toasted" a bit too much!

People often shorten the name to EAI. You might also hear it called by other names like hot water bottle rash, fire stains, laptop thigh, granny's tartan, or toasted skin syndrome. These names often give a clue about how someone might get this rash.

What is Erythema ab igne?

Erythema ab igne is a skin condition that looks like a net-like pattern of reddish-brown or purple lines. It's caused by repeated or long-term exposure to heat that isn't hot enough to cause a burn right away. Instead, it's a milder heat that warms the skin over many hours, days, or even months.

How Does it Look and Feel?

When you have EAI, the skin usually changes color. It can look like a reddish-brown or purplish net or lace pattern. This pattern shows up in the exact area that was exposed to the heat.

• Appearance: The skin might look discolored, often with a web-like or marbled pattern. The color can range from light red to dark brown or even purple.
• Feeling: Some people might not feel anything at all. Others might notice a mild itchiness or a slight burning sensation in the affected area.

Why Does Skin Change Color?

The heat causes tiny blood vessels in your skin to expand and become damaged. Over time, this damage can lead to changes in the skin's pigment (its natural color), making it look discolored. It's a sign that your skin is trying to protect itself from the ongoing heat.

What Causes Erythema ab igne?

EAI happens when a part of your body is regularly exposed to a heat source that is warm, but not scalding hot. It's not a sudden injury like a burn, but rather a slow change over time.

Common Heat Sources

Many everyday things can cause EAI if used for too long or too often.

• Hot Water Bottles and Heating Pads: These are classic causes, especially if used daily for pain relief, like a stomach ache or back pain.
• Laptops: Resting a hot laptop directly on your bare thighs for hours can lead to "laptop thigh."
• Space Heaters and Fireplaces: Sitting too close to these heat sources for long periods, especially if the heat is directed at one part of your body.
• Car Heaters: If you drive for many hours with the car heater blowing on your legs.
• Heated Furniture: Some heated chairs or blankets, if used excessively.
• Occupational Exposure: People who work near heat sources, like bakers or glassblowers, might develop EAI on exposed skin.

Is it a Burn?

No, EAI is not a burn. A burn happens quickly from very high heat, causing immediate damage like blisters or open wounds. EAI is different because it comes from lower heat over a long time, leading to a discoloration and pattern on the skin without breaking the skin's surface.

What Happens Next?

If you notice signs of Erythema ab igne, the most important step is to stop the heat exposure.

What to Do

• Remove the Heat Source: The first and most important thing is to stop using whatever is causing the heat. If it's a laptop, use a lap desk. If it's a heating pad, try other ways to manage pain.
• See a Doctor: It's a good idea to show the rash to a doctor. They can confirm it's EAI and make sure it's not something else. They can also give advice on how to manage any itchiness or discomfort.

Can it Go Away?

In many cases, if the heat exposure stops early enough, the skin discoloration can fade over several months. However, if the heat exposure has been very long-term or intense, the skin changes might become permanent. This is why it's important to stop the heat source as soon as you notice the rash.