One method of classifying frostbite injury is based on the gross appearance of the injured area.
Clinical Appearance
Degree
Outcome
white to yellow firm plaque
first
no tissue loss but causalgia pain may follow
superficial blisters containing clear or milky fluid with or without erythema and edema in surrounding tissue
second
limited superficial skin loss may occur
deeper blisters containing red or purple fluid, OR darkly discolored skin without blisters
third
varies with depth of injury
extensive dark and cyanotic skin without blisters or edema
fourth
gangrene within a few hours
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Specialty: Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
ICD-10: ,