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Cold finger: urban frostbite in the UK
Stephen Mulgrew1, Anna Khoo, Tom Oxenham
1The Lister Hospital, Stevenage, UK. stephenmulgrew@hotmail.com
BMJ Case Reports
|August 31, 2013
Summary
Excess alcohol consumption led to a young man developing frostbite after falling asleep outdoors. Prompt medical attention was sought for his painful finger injury.
Area of Science:
- Medical Case Study
- Toxicology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Alcohol intoxication can impair judgment and thermoregulation.
- Exposure to cold environments following excessive alcohol consumption poses significant health risks.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old male presented to the accident and emergency (A&E) department with a painful finger.
- The patient reported consuming excess alcohol and subsequently falling asleep outdoors.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms and history were consistent with frostbite.
- Delayed presentation to the A&E department after initial exposure.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of cold-related injuries in intoxicated individuals.
- Emphasizes the importance of recognizing frostbite in emergency settings.
- Underscores the need for awareness regarding the dangers of alcohol-induced hypothermia and frostbite.
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