Laptop Computers Users at Risk of "Toasted Skin Syndrome"

While modern technology often benefits mankind, the popularity of laptop computers has sparked a resurgence of "toasted skin syndrome" in the United States and other industrialized countries.

Before central heating "toasted skin syndrome" often affected people who sat close to fires or stoves to stay warm. The condition is still prevalent in third world countries where central heating is not common. Bakers, glass blowers, foundry workers, silversmiths and other craftsmen whose occupations require long-term exposure to heat sources are often affected by "toasted skin syndrome."

Laptop users who hold their computer on their laps for long periods of time are likely to experience "toasted skin syndrome." Using a laptop while holding it on your legs can restrict the air flow to and from the interior fan which cools the processors. The bottom of the laptop can reach extreme temperatures, which can result in "toasted skin syndrome" when the skin becomes overheated.

The medical term for this condition is erythema ab igne, which causes characteristic reddened, splotchy skin discolorations on the overheated body part. While the condition is usually harmless in isolated incidents and the skin reverts to normal, repeated episodes of "toasted skin syndrome" may cause lesions or sores, or result in permanent darkening of the skin. A recent study in Basel, Switzerland, indicates that in rare cases erythema ab igne may lead to squamous cell skin cancers.

Children may be especially vulnerable, since they often become so absorbed in their games that they don't realize their skin is getting overheated. Protect yourself and your family from "toasted skin syndrome" by following these laptop safety tips:

Place your laptop on a tabletop or other hard surface when you're using it.

If you must use your laptop in your lap, reposition in periodically and avoid blocking the vents underneath.

Use a lap desk, which has a pillow on the bottom and a hard work surface on top.

Shut your computer down when you're not using it, to reduce heat build-up.

Check the vents regularly and clean any dust out of them with a soft-bristled brush or small vacuum attachment.

Giving your laptop computer time to cool off once in a while will protect not only your skin, but the processors inside the computer as well. Your laptop will have a longer life, and you won't have to worry about permanent, and unattractive, skin discoloration caused by "toasted skin syndrome."