Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

Tech

Boy developed "toasted skin" condition from using a laptop every day

Laptops don't usually get hot enough to burn—but they can still be harmful.

Boy developed "toasted skin" condition from using a laptop every day

A young boy developed an unusual skin condition after daily use of a laptop, according to a medical case report published in BMJ Case Reports. The marks on the boy's abdomen were described as a flat, reddish-brown patch, measuring approximately 15 centimeters (six inches) in diameter. The marks formed irregular circles and a lace-like pattern.

Despite the alarming appearance, the boy showed no signs of pain, warmth, or tenderness. His parents were unaware of any recent injuries or trauma that could explain the marks. The boy was otherwise healthy, with no recent illnesses or systemic symptoms such as fever or fatigue. The medical team, comprised of two UK doctors, Mara Znagoveanu and Edward Artley, were perplexed by the boy's condition and could not identify any clear explanation.

The case highlights the potential risks associated with prolonged daily use of electronic devices in children.

Written by urgent.news from Ars Technica's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

This story

This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.

Read the original at arstechnica.com →

More in Tech

More from Thursday 10 September →