Metallization of the skin is a finding seen in electrocution. It can also be seen after a lightning strike.
Clinical findings:
(1) evidence of a patient being struck by lightning
(2) presence of skin lesions, usually dark colored
(3) evidence of metal in the skin lesion by histology
(4) confirmation and identification of the metal by electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, by imaging mass spectrometry or other suitable method
The lesions apparently may arise from:
(1) splatter of metal on the person that explodes due to the electric current
(2) direct transfer of molten metal from something metal on the person
Metallic objects worn by a person can occasionally attract lightning.
A metallic object on a person struck by lightning may leave a pattern burn without metallization.
Metallization injury needs to be distinguished Lichtenberg figures.
