[Mountain frostbite (apropos of 1260 recorded cases)]

Based on an important statistic of mountain frostbite (1260 cases), the authors try to explain the underlying physiopathological mechanism which remains largely unknown. An early prognosis may nowadays be improved by several diagnostic tools whose efficiency is reviewed. Difficult problems arise with severe frostbite only. In those cases, the treatment as such seems still limited to saving what has been spared. In any case, a quick warming up is the keystone of the treatment.