Similar to superficial partial-thickness burns, these burns can also present with blisters intact.

These burns are painful. Healing typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks with minimal scarring.Ī deep partial-thickness burn involves the deeper reticular dermis. Blisters are common and may still be intact when first evaluated. Once the blister is unroofed, the underlying wound bed is homogeneously red or pink and will blanch with pressure. Ī second-degree burn, also known as a superficial partial-thickness burn, affects the superficial layer of the dermis.

Superficial burns heal without scarring within 5 to 10 days. Ī superficial (first-degree) burn involves the epidermis only. These burns can be pink-to-red, without blistering, are dry, and can be moderately painful. The epidermis primarily acts as a protective layer that prevents fluid loss, while the dermis provides skin elasticity and strength. The reticular dermis is more dense and contains more organized elastin, collagen type I and III, and larger blood vessels than the papillary dermis. The papillary dermis is thin and comprises capillaries and various connective tissues like elastin, mainly collagen type III, and reticular fibers. Underneath the epidermis lies the dermis, which consists of the superficial papillary dermis and deep reticular dermis. The outermost layer, the epidermis, contains multiple layers and significant cell components such as melanocytes and keratinocytes. Knowing the skin's structure is crucial in identifying the appropriate burn depth. The skin comprises 2 layers: the epidermis and the dermis. Burn injuries are a complex process and should be documented with a focus on the patient's comorbidities and the injury mechanism. These classify burns into levels based on thickness according to the American Burn Criteria. To accurately determine the depth of a burn, four essential components must be evaluated: appearance, blanching to pressure, pain, and sensation. When categorizing burns, the main factor to consider is depth.

2nd degree chemical burn healing stages