Idiopathic chilblains.
BACKGROUND
Chilblains is a benign condition infrequently encountered in clinical practice; its resemblance to vasculitis or peripheral thromboemboli can often result in an extensive and unnecessary diagnostic work-up.


METHODS
Three cases of chilblains seen by our Rheumatology service, along with 113 documented cases, were reviewed.


RESULTS
Chilblains is characterized by painful red-to-purple papular lesions involving the acral surface of fingers or toes that resolves with symptomatic treatment. Female sex and low body mass index are risk factors.


CONCLUSIONS
Distinct clinical features of chilblains can be used for early recognition and management, thus avoiding unnecessary diagnostic testing and delays in patient care.
Prakash
Shraddha
S
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, Calif., USA.
Weisman
Michael H
MH
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001799:Blood Sedimentation; D015992:Body Mass Index; D002647:Chilblains / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006358:Hot Temperature / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012737:Sex Factors