Erythema Ab Igne: A Clinical Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pathology

Background:

• Erythema ab igne (EAI) is a skin condition resulting from chronic, low-level heat exposure.
• It is characterized by a reticulated, erythematous rash that develops over weeks to months.
• While historically linked to proximity to heat sources like stoves, numerous other causes have emerged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse etiologies of Erythema ab igne.
• To highlight the clinical presentation and diagnostic methods for EAI.
• To discuss the prognosis and rare malignant transformations associated with chronic EAI.

Main Methods:

• Clinical diagnosis based on patient history and physical examination.
• Review of literature detailing various causes and presentations of EAI.
• Histopathological findings including dilated vasculature, interface dermatitis, and pigment incontinence.

Main Results:

• EAI has multiple causes, including new technologies, cultural practices, psychiatric conditions, and iatrogenic factors.
• Chronic pain management using heat application is a common cause, potentially indicating an underlying illness.
• No FDA-approved therapies exist for EAI hyperpigmentation, but prognosis is excellent with heat source removal.

Conclusions:

• Erythema ab igne is a clinical diagnosis with a broad range of causes beyond historical associations.
• Identifying the heat source is crucial for management, often leading to spontaneous resolution.
• Rarely, chronic EAI may evolve into various malignancies, necessitating vigilance.