Description
A severe sunburn that can become fatal if not treated appropriately. It occurs from widespread and severe damage to the skin from the sun. Blistering can become severe and lead to dehydration from the loss of fluid when the blisters burst. The disorder is rare.
Symptoms
Skin redness, skin peeling, itching, painful skin, blisters. The affected skin typically involves large portions of the body. Fever, confusion, vomiting, fainting, rapid pulse, rapid breathing, extreme thirst, no urine output, clammy or cool skin.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. Other tests will be done to determine the severity of the dehydration, detect a skin infection, or identify damage to any organs.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA)
Specialists:
Dermatology, Critical Care Medicine, Telemedicine Dermatology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. Other tests will be done to determine the severity of the dehydration, detect a skin infection, or identify damage to any organs.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA)
Specialists:
Dermatology, Critical Care Medicine, Telemedicine Dermatology
Treatment
Therapy requires intravenous fluids and admission to the hospital. Any associated infections or damage to organs will be treated as well.