‘Lichtenberg figure’ as a result of lightning shock

Abstract

The painless, hyperemic, spreading and ferning patern figure on the skin is called Lichtenberg figure (LF). It matches no anatomical, vascular, or neural patterns. Contrary to thermal and electrical burns, it is harmless to epidermis and deeper tissues. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, it is thought that they represent red blood cells extravasated into the superficial layers of the skin from capillaries secondary to the dielectric breakdown of the skin and subsequent massive electron shower [2]. Our patient was admitted to the observation unit. The patient, who was on observation status for 48 hours, discharged from the hospital and recommended to attend the outpatient clinic. If a victim found unconscious outdoors, strike of lightning should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Pathognomonic skin findings should not be overlooked.