Cutaneous Manifestations of Lightning Injury: A Case Report

BACKGROUND Lightning injuries are relatively uncommon and have been a subject of awe since primitive times. It most significantly affects the cardiorespiratory, nervous, and integumentary systems. Surprisingly, cutaneous burn injuries caused by lightning are usually superficial. OBJECTIVE To present the cutaneous manifestations of lightning injuries and the sequelae of improper management. CASE REPORT A 22-year-old woman presented with cutaneous manifestations of lightning-induced burns and bilateral upper limb gangrene after 2 months of improper treatment. She refused amputation after counseling and left the hospital. CONCLUSION This is a rare case of burns with cutaneous manifestations peculiar to lightning injury. These features serve as evidence of lightning injury, when in doubt, especially in societies where superstition is rife. Education concerning the nature of lightning and proper management would improve outcome.