Constant and excessive exposure to heat can cause hot water bottle rash or erythema ab igne. The consistent heat injures the epidermis of the skin and causes damage similar to sun-damaged skin. Erythema ab igne is rarer in developed nations because of the wide availability of general heating sources such as central heating. The condition is more common in areas that primarily use hot water bottles, heating pads, and infrared lamps for warmth. It can cause skin discoloration even after erythema ab igne resolves and carcinoma may develop years after the exposure.

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