Some people with advanced hypothermia may suddenly start taking all of their clothes off. In most cases the person will die soon after.
Features:
(1) the person has significant exposure to the cold
(2) the person has evidence of moderate to severe hypothermia
(3) the person may start to behave bizarrely and speak incoherently
(4) the person suddenly starts taking all or most of clothing off without regard to risk
Causation: uncertain since usually occurs in an uncontrolled setting. The patient is often delirious. There may be misperception of body temperature due to thermoregulatory dysfunction.
Differential diagnosis:
(1) sexual assault
(2) drug intoxication associated with hyperthermia or delirium (alpha-PVP, others)
(3) polar bear plunge
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
