Types of Burns
1. Thermal
A thermal burn is caused by an external heat source capable of raising the temperature of the skin and deeper tissues to a level that causes cell death and protein coagulation.
The extent of the damage depends on the amount of energy transferred from the source.
Cause of Thermal Burns
- Flames
- Hot Liquids
- Hot Objects
- Gases
2. Radiation
Prolonged or acute exposure to the sun’s ultra violet radiation or sources of x-ray or other radiation
Causes
- Ultra-violet (sun burn)
- X-ray
- Sun Beds
3. Chemical
Induced by various chemical reactions to the skin, resulting in liquifactive or coagulation necrosis.
Causes
- Acids
- Alkalis
- Phenols
- Cresols
- Mustard Gas
- Phosphorous
4. Electrical
The burn results from the heat generated from an electrical current. The severity is dependant on the strength of the current and the duration of contact. The damage occurs between the entrance and exit wounds and follows the path of tissue of least resistance.
Causes
- Accidental electrical contact
- Lightening
