Laptop computer-induced erythema ab igne in a child and review of the literature

Pediatrics. 2010 Nov;126(5):e1227-30. doi: 10.1542/peds.2010-1390. Epub 2010 Oct 4.

Abstract

We report here the case of a 12-year-old boy with erythema ab igne on his left thigh caused by the use of a laptop computer. This is the youngest of the 10 reported patients with this laptop-induced dermatosis since its first description in 2004. Erythema ab igne is a reticular, pigmented, sometimes telangiectatic dermatosis that is caused by prolonged exposure to a heat or infrared source. In laptop-induced erythema ab igne, the localization on the thighs and asymmetry are characteristic. The heat originates from the optical drive, the battery, or the ventilation fan of the computer.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Erythema / etiology*
  • Hot Temperature / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Leg Dermatoses / etiology*
  • Male
  • Microcomputers*
  • Telangiectasis / etiology
  • Thigh*
  • Video Games