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Updated: May 16, 2026
08:16
High-Resolution Three-Dimensional Imaging of the Footpad Vasculature in a Murine Hindlimb Gangrene Model
Published on: March 16, 2022
[Fingertip necroses of unknown origin]
F Butsch1, B M Rudolph, R Schopf
1Hautklinik und Poliklinik, Universitätsmedizin der Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz. florian.butsch@unimedizin-mainz.de
Summary
A woman developed finger necrosis from smoking cigarettes too close to the skin. This case highlights a rare burn injury from direct contact with burning tobacco, requiring careful diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Cigarette smoking is a common habit with numerous health risks.
- Direct thermal injury from smoking materials is an uncommon cause of digital necrosis.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old woman presented with dry, necrotic areas on her right index and middle fingers.
- The injury was attributed to her habit of smoking cigarettes down to the last drag, causing direct skin contact with the burning tobacco.
Findings:
- The necrotic lesions on the phalanges were consistent with a thermal burn injury.
- Differential diagnoses considered included occlusive arterial disease, vasculitis, endangiitis obliterans, peripheral embolisms, and chemical exposure.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering direct thermal injury in patients with digital necrosis and a history of smoking.
- Awareness of this specific smoking-related injury can aid in accurate diagnosis and prevention strategies.
- Educating smokers about the risks of direct contact with burning tobacco is crucial.
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