A 65 Years Old lady with History of Hypothyroidism presents in December with a Rash down the left side of her body, With no other knows Co Morbidities, On Examination she was Found to be vitally stable and on local exam An Erythematous Rash with patches of Hyperpigmentation and telegiectesia was found


The Disease was found to be called as

Erythema Ab Igne(EAI)

What is it ?


It is a skin Disorder caused by overexposure to infrared Radiation , patient classically presents with history of Frequent Exposure to Fire specially open Fire, it is not mandatory that one must sit in front of open fire, even some occupations dealing with Fire jobs i.e Chefs, bakers, Silversmiths, jewellers

Typical Features include Reticulated , Erythematous Patches with hyperpigmentation(sometimes hypo) and Telangiectesia  and skin starts to become thin (atrophied), some patients even complaint of Itching or Burning Sensation, this Disease if not treated can lead to a Cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma

What kind of Heat Sources are known to cause EAI?

-Heating Pads
-Hot Water Bottles
-Open Fires
-Coal Stoves
-Peat Fires
-Wood Stoves
-Steam Radiators
-Car Engines
-Infrared Lamps
-Hot Bathing

ALL of these must be used too frequently to cause severe type of EAI


How it is Related to Hypothyroidism?

 Patients with Hypothyroidism are Generally Unable to bear Cold and they Tend to sit more Frequently in front of Fire! Hence Leading to Erthema ab Igne more frequently!

How to Treat this Condition?


In Mild Cases only avoidance of the heat contact leads to resolvance of symptoms with in several weeks, and In Severe cases in which Atrophy has developed then Close monitoring is the option and if needed Biospy is done, All trans Retinoic Acid and Laser therapy has shown some good Response as well!