What is frostbite characterized by?

Frostbite is characterized by tissues being frozen due to prolonged exposure to extremely cold temperatures. When the skin and underlying tissues freeze, the ice crystals that form can damage the cells, leading to a loss of blood flow and potential tissue necrosis. This freezing effect disrupts normal bodily functions in the affected areas and can result in discoloration, pain, and even the need for amputation in severe cases. Understanding this aspect of frostbite is crucial for recognizing the seriousness of cold exposure and the importance of immediate medical treatment. The other choices describe conditions that do not align with the characteristics of frostbite, where the primary issue is indeed the freezing of tissues.