Chilblain

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Chilblains, also called perniosis or blain, when occurring on the feet, is a medical condition that is often confused with frostbite and trench foot. Chilblains are acral ulcers that occur when a predisposed individual is exposed to cold and humidity. Causes are idiopathic or manifestations of serious medical conditions that need to be investigated. Chilblains can be prevented by keeping the feet and hands warm in cold weather. Smoking cessation is advised. A consultation with a dermatologist is mandatory.

Symptoms

Ulceration of the digits and toes
Itchy skin inflammation
Skin redness
Toe skin inflammation
Finger skin inflammation
Earlobe inflammation

Duration

With treatment, chilblains usually heal within 3 weeks

Treatments

Keep area warm
Avoid scratching
Anti-itch creams, such as Calamine lotion
Zambuk ointment
Nifedipine may be used in more severe or recurrent cases.^[1] Its vasodilation helps reduce pain, facilitate healing and prevent recurrences.^[2]

Prevention

Avoid cold exposure
Wear gloves
Use warm footwear
Keep hands and feet warm
Healthy diet
Exercise
High doses of vitamin K

Footnotes

↑ Rustin M, Newton J, Smith N, Dowd P (1989). “The treatment of chilblains with nifedipine: the results of a pilot study, a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized study and a long-term open trial”. Br J Dermatol. 120 (2): 267–75. PMID 2647123.
↑ Simon T, Soep J, Hollister J (2005). “Pernio in pediatrics”. Pediatrics. 116 (3): e472–5. PMID 16140694.

External links

Template:Consequences of external causes

Template:WS

[1] Rustin M, Newton J, Smith N, Dowd P (1989). “The treatment of chilblains with nifedipine: the results of a pilot study, a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized study and a long-term open trial”. Br J Dermatol. 120 (2): 267–75. PMID 2647123.

[2] Simon T, Soep J, Hollister J (2005). “Pernio in pediatrics”. Pediatrics. 116 (3): e472–5. PMID 16140694.

[1]

[2]