Elevação da temperatura cutânea após a infusão controlada de dióxido de carbono Increase of the skin temperature after infusion-controlled carbon dioxide

SUMMARY Introduction: Carbon dioxide infusion-controlled increases the skin temperature. It occurs through a local inflammatory reaction leading dilatation of the cutaneous microcirculation. Methods: Ten patients, 7 females and 3 males, exhibiting skin flaccidity with increase of the subjacent fat, were submitted to carbon dioxide infusion-controlled on the medial portion of the arms and anterior abdominal wall. Measurement of the skin temperature was performed before and after the infusion using a digital thermometer. Results: The mean elevation of the skin temperature after carbon dioxide infusion was 3.48°C. Conclusion: Infusion-controlled carbon dioxide stimulated dilation of the cutaneous microcirculation improving the blood flow with increase of the local temperature.