What is the best description of frostbite?

Frostbite occurs when skin and other tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. The best description involves the formation of ice crystals between the cells of the skin. This process can cause damage to the cells and tissues, leading to potential loss of function and requiring careful medical attention.

When ice crystals form and expand, they can disrupt cellular integrity, leading to inflammation and tissue death if not addressed promptly. This is particularly concerning in severe cases where deep frostbite can affect layers beneath the skin, including muscle and bone. Understanding this process is essential in recognizing the severity of frostbite and facilitating appropriate treatment.

In contrast, other descriptions do not accurately represent frostbite. For example, simply turning red from cold exposure refers more to warning signs of cold stress or hypothermia rather than actual frostbite. Additionally, a body temperature dropping below 95°F indicates hypothermia rather than frostbite itself, while being exposed to temperatures above freezing does not lead to frostbite at all. Thus, the formation of ice crystals in tissues is the clearest and most accurate depiction of frostbite.