What Are Burns?

Burns are injuries to the skin and underlying tissues caused by exposure to high temperatures, chemicals, electrical current, or radiation. The severity depends on the depth and extent of the damage. Burns are classified into three degrees:

• First-degree burns (superficial)
• Second-degree burns (partial thickness)
• Third-degree burns (full thickness), which are the most severe as they destroy all layers of the skin and often require surgical intervention.

In addition to immediate effects on the skin, extensive burns can lead to serious systemic complications such as fluid loss, infection, thermal shock, and respiratory distress, especially when hot air or toxic substances have been inhaled.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Burn diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation by an experienced physician. The extent of the burn is usually assessed using the “rule of nines” to estimate the total body surface area (% TBSA) affected. Depth is evaluated based on color, texture, blood supply, and sensation in the area.

A comprehensive assessment includes:

• Determination of burn degree
• Calculation of affected surface area (% TBSA)
• Detection of possible inhalation injury
• Monitoring vital signs and conducting laboratory tests

Stabilization and Immediate Care

Initial care of burn victims includes stabilization of vital functions:

• Oxygen administration if inhalation injury is suspected
• Intravenous fluid resuscitation (e.g., following the Parkland formula)
• Removal of clothing and heat sources
• Antisepsis and covering the area with sterile dressings

Patients with extensive burns often require hospitalization in a burn unit and monitoring by a multidisciplinary team (plastic surgeon, anesthesiologist, infectious disease specialist, etc.).