Synonym(s)
Congelatio; congelation dermatitis
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Severe cold damage.
EtiopathogenesisThis section has been translated automatically.
Climatic exposure to cold, contact with carbon dioxide snow (e.g. fire extinguisher) or liquid nitrogen.
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Clinical featuresThis section has been translated automatically.
Classification in 4 degrees:
- (1st degree) Dermatitis congelationis erythematosa: First paleness, then redness.
- (2nd degree) Dermatitis congelationis bullosa: damage to the superficial layers of the skin with blistering.
- (3rd degree) Dermatitis congelationis escharotica: damage to the deeper skin layers and subcutaneous tissue, necroses.
- (4th degree) Gangraena congelationis, cold burn: gangrene, loss of limbs.
External therapyThis section has been translated automatically.
Slow heating, keep frozen areas cool at first, as further damage can occur due to the disproportion between the oxygen requirement of the heated tissue and restricted oxygen supply.
Caution!
There is a danger of reheating shock! In case of 3rd degree frostbite, mummification should be sought, therefore dry treatment, e.g. powder treatment, no moist compresses. Surgical measures after demarcation. S.a.u. Burning.Internal therapyThis section has been translated automatically.
Warm and hot drinks, medicinal support for vascular dilatation such as pentoxifylline (e.g. Trental) 800-1200 mg/day p.o. or 1-2 amps slowly (over 5 min.) i.v. or 100-600 mg/day per infusionem (infuse slowly; 100 mg/60 min.). Thrombosis prophylaxis with low molecular weight heparin e.g. Nadroparin (Fraxiparin) 2 times/day 0.1 ml/10 kg KG s.c. If necessary, anti-tetanus prophylaxis.
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Incoming links (8)
Congelatio; Congelation dermatitis; Cryopathies; Hyetellose; Nail, more painful; Onychogrypose; Pseudoainhum syndrome; Wound treatment;Disclaimer
Please ask your physician for a reliable diagnosis. This website is only meant as a reference.
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer