Saturday, February, 11, 2012

Burn type differentiation

Table of Contents

Definition


Alternative Names

Types of burns


Information

Question:

What is the difference between first-, second-, and third-degree burns?

Answer:

  • First-degree burns involve red skin, mild swelling, and some pain.
  • Second-degree burns are very painful and involve red skin with blisters that may open and ooze clear fluid.
  • Third-degree burns are often extremely painful. However, they may be painless if nerves have been damaged. In this type of burn, layers of skin are destroyed and skin appears brown or charred.

See burns for more information.


Review Date: 10/19/2007
Reviewed By: Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private Practice specializing in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)