Affiliation:
1. Division of Dermatology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario
Abstract
Background: Humans are commonly exposed to extremes in temperature. Fortunately, our skin behaves as an anatomic and physiologic barrier during these periods. Exposure to cold temperatures may result in a variety of symptoms and disorders. Objective: Our current understanding of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and therapies of cold-induced skin disorders are reviewed. Methods: Studies, reviews, and book chapters that contained information on cold-induced skin disorders were reviewed. Conclusion: Cold-induced skin disorders are a heterogeneous group of disorders that cause great morbidity, particularly in cold climates. These entities can be classified as physiologic or pathologic responses to freezing or nonfreezing cold exposure.