brand-logo

Chilblains - Pernio

Very low urgency
--

It is skin damage due to a lack of blood supply and oxygen.

It is caused by exposure to extreme cold.

The skin presents red-violet plaques or nodules that are painful and itchy, and if the area is not warmed, blisters or ulcers appear that may become infected.

Diagnosis is made through clinical history and physical examination. 

As a treatment, the priority is to warm, dry and protect the area, to recover blood circulation and heal the lesions. 

Bibliographic references
  1. Daniela Kroshinsky, MD. Pernio (chilblains). UpToDate. Aug 16, 2106.
  2. Frostbite. Ken Zafren, MD, FAAEM, FACEP, FAWM. C Crawford Mechem, MD, FACEP. UpToDate. Apr 20, 2015.
  3. Simon TD, Soep JB, Hollister JR. Pernio in pediatrics. Pediatrics 2005; 116:e472.
  4. Kroeger K, Janssen S, Niebel W. Frostbite in a mountaineer. Vasa 2004; 33:173.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Swollen, purple or red-bluish fingers / toes

    Finger/toe discomfort

    Skin alteration

    Itchy skin

    Blisters larger than 0.5 cm / 0.2 inches

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever (temperature higher than 100.4 ºF)
Cyanosis, bluish color of lips and/or nails

Self-care

Apply heat to the affected area.
Avoid exposure to the cold.
Antihistamines in syrup or tablet form for itching.
Avoid scratching or causing damage to the skin.
Reduce tobacco consumption.
Mediktor logo