Slideshow
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CA0611Burn1
Sunburn is a common example of a superficial first-degree burn, in which only the top layer of the epidermis is affected. Blistering and skin sloughing does not occur with first-degree burns, pain is mild to moderate and healing usually occurs in less than a week.
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CA0611Burn2
Firework injuries can cause superficial burns like the ones pictured here. Because burns reduce defense to airborne bacteria, infection is a major concern.
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CA0611Burn3
Superficial second-degree burns involve both the epidermis and the papillary dermis. They often blister and skin sloughing is common. These burns are often painful, but heal in one-to-two weeks without significant scarring if treated properly.
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CA0611Burn4
Deep second-degree burns like the one pictured here, extend deeper into the reticular dermis. These burns can be more difficult to heal, pose a higher risk of infection, and often require surgical excision and grafting.
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CA0611Burn5
Also referred to as full-thickness burns, third-degree burns like this one involve all layers of the dermis and extend into the subcutaneous tissue. They are firm, dry, charred and leathery in appearance. This type of burn has a poor healing rate if not treated with early excision and grafting, and poses a high risk for infection and scarring, as well as death, especially if a large total body surface area is involved.
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CA0611Burn6
Fourth-degree burns are similar to other full-thickness burns, but differ in that the wound also involves injury to muscle, tendons, nerves, and bone. These underlying structures will be visible and usually appear charred. Fourth-degree burns will not heal with the presence of continued eschar and are at very high risk for infection and often result in amputation of the affected extremity.
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CA0611Burns_Fig1
Second degree burns are often painful, but heal in one-to-two weeks without significant scarring if treated properly.
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CA0711Burns_Fig2
Blistering and a beefier-red wound bed are often seen with deep second-degree burns.
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CA0711Burns_Fig3
The surgical removal of nonviable eschar (shown here) should be performed in a burn center.
