MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Frostbite

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Frostbite - hands

Frostbite is seldom seen in areas with temperate climates. It occurs at sub-zero temperatures or at temperatures just below freezing but with a wind (wind chill). At some temperatures frostbite can occur within minutes. Note the blistering and swelling caused by tissue freezing. Sever frostbite may result in loss of fingers and toes or other exposed body parts.

Update Date: 5/1/2006

Updated by: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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