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