Burns - Types/Classification
Thermal Burn
Caused by conduction or convection - examples include hot liquid, fire, or steam
Electrical Burn
Caused by the passage of electrical current through the body - typically there is an entrance and exit wound. Complication can include cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory arrest, renal failure, neurological damage, and fractures. Lightning is an example of an electrical burn
Full-Thickness Burn
Involves complete destruction of the epidermis and dermis along with partial damage of the subcutaneous fat layer. The involved area often presents with eschar formation and minimal pain - Patients require grafts and may be susceptible to infection
Deep Partial-Thickness Burn
Involves complete destruction of the epidermis and the majority of the dermis. The involved area may appear to be discolored with broken blisters and edema. Damage to nerve endings may result in only moderate levels of pain. Healing occurs with hypertrophic and keloids
Superficial Burn
Involves only the outer epidermis. The involved area may be red with slight edema - healing occurs without evidence of scaring
Subdermal Burn
Involves the complete destruction of the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. Subdermal burns may involve muscle and bone - often require surgical intervention
Superficial Partial-Thickness Burn
Involves the epidermis and the upper portion of the dermis. The involved area may be extremely painful and exhibit blisters. Healing occurs with minimal to no scaring
Chemical Burn
Occurs when certain chemical compounds come in contact with the body. The reaction will continue until the chemical compound is diluted from the site - compounds that cause chemical burns include sulfuric acid, lye, hydrochloric acid, and gasoline
Burn Classification
The extent and severity of a burn is dependent on gender, age, duration of burn, type of burn, and affected area. Burns are classified according to the depth of tissue destruction