Frostbite – from Turkish eastern border as a consequence of irregular migration

INTRODUCTION: Frostbite is becoming more prevalent within the homeless, mentally ill and substance abusing subgroup. However; our objective is to evaluate the clinical presentation, treatment and consequences of frostbite seen in a different population– irregular migrants captured at Eastern Border of Turkey. In addition, up to date approach to frostbite injury is reviewed.
METHODS: Data extraction was done retrospectively from 40 patients’ admission to hospital from 26 January till 25 February 2020. Each patient was assigned with the grade of the most severe frostbite lesion detected at the admission. Clinical pictures were captured for the follow up of demarcation at each dressing change. Multidisciplinary treatment modality was summarized.
RESULTS: 38 patients were included. Within the population dominated mainly by male young adults, 74% of the patients presented with Grade 3-4 severity whereas 26% were assigned with Grade 1-2 frostbites. Majority of the frostbitten areas were confined to lower extremities. Assigned frostbite gradings at the admission didn’t deflect within the hospitalization period apart from 3 patients worsening towards grade 4 following fasciotomy.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Frostbite injury has detrimental outcomes if not recognized and treated in a timely manner.  If not, the likelihood of receiving amputations significantly increase.