The environmental extremes in which soldiers exercise and fight, like the e
nvironmental extremes in which many civilians encounter occupationally and
recreationally, can prove to be a significant cause for morbidity and decre
ased effectiveness. A variety of skin diseases are related to occupational
exposure to dusts and ultraviolet radiation as a well known cause of cutane
ous damage. As more is understood about the biochemical factors involved in
frostbite injury treatment recommendations have changed. Too much water, h
ot or cold, is a continued source of cutaneous misery to the soldier in the
field. Finally, even common minor skin ailments can incapacitate the suffe
rer when confronted with unfavorable environments.