Heat-excited erythema is a reticular dermatosis that develops as a result of repeated exposure to mild thermal stimuli (infrared radiation). The pathophysiological mechanism is unclear, but this level of infrared radiation leads to changes in the elastic fibers of the skin. Heat-irritated erythema often occurs in the setting of chronic pain, with injuries to the back or abdomen causing patients to apply electric heating pads or hot water bottles to relieve pain. More fashionable causes also include the use of a laptop computer resting on the lap. Treatment of heat-irritated erythema begins with discontinuing the use of heat sources. If exposure continues, permanent hyperpigmentation may occur. Another possible distant sequel is squamous carcinoma.