Heat loss in anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia

Abstract

The dynamics of heat loss by 2 patients with classic anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia were studied. Both were active in high school athletics and avoided heat injuries by various forms of behavior modification. Elevated core and skin temperature measurements were found at rest in comfortable environments. In a warm environment 35-45% of the heat generated was lost by radiation, 44-52% by conduction and convection, and only 4-6% by evaporation. Heat loss in control subjects was 9% by radiation, 17% by conduction/convection, and 67% by evaporation. The dry routes of heat dissipation used by the anhidrotic patients were inadequate to prevent a rise in core temperature.