Frostbite Disease

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Frostbite is when exposure to cold temperatures causes freezing to the skin or other tissues. It most commonly affects the hands, feet, and face. The longer areas are exposed to cold, typically the worse the frostbite. Frostbite is classified by degrees of severity, with first degree being superficial damage to surface skin and fourth degree involving bone, muscle and tendon. It results in irreversible damage. People who are exposed to cold temperatures for prolonged periods are at greatest risk of frostbite, such as winter sports enthusiasts, military personnel, and homeless individuals. People with poor circulation of blood or ability to seek shelter are also at increased risk. Specifically this includes drinking alcohol, smoking, mental health problems, certain medications, and prior injuries due to cold. Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to narrow, slowing the flow of warm blood from the core of the body to the extremities. With prolonged exposure to cold, ice crystals form in tissues. These ice crystals, in turn, damage cells and blood vessels. Specific tests are not typically required for diagnosis; the person's history and physical exam are sufficient. Frostnip, chilblains (pernio), and trench foot can look similar to frostbite.