A description of the traditional and current classifications of burns.
Nomenclature
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Traditional nomenclature
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Depth
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Clinical findings
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Superficial thickness
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First-degree
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Epidermis involvement
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Erythema, minor pain, lack of blisters
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Partial thickness – superficial
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Second-degree
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Superficial (papillary) dermis
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Blisters, clear fluid, and pain
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Partial thickness – deep
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Second-degree
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Deep (reticular) dermis
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Whiter appearance
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Full thickness
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Third- or Fourth-degree*
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Dermis and underlying tissue and possibly fascia, bone, or muscle
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Hard, leather-like eschar, purple fluid, no sensation (insensate)
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