Topic Overview
Chilblains (perniosis, also known as pernio) is a reaction to cold, nonfreezing temperatures. It is seen most often in young people who have Raynaud's phenomenon and people who are exposed to damp, cold weather.
Symptoms develop 2 to 14 hours after exposure to cold and usually affect the hands, ears, lower legs, or feet. Symptoms include:
- Local redness and swelling.
- Skin bumps.
- Changes in sensation, such as itching or burning.
- Tender blue bumps that develop after rewarming.
- Blisters and ulcers (in severe cases).
Treatment includes rewarming the affected areas, caring for any blisters that form, and avoiding reexposure to cold.
Credits
Current as of: March 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine