burn injuries
tissue damage caused by exposure to flame, intense heat without flame (e.g., contact with high-voltage electricity, red-hot metal, or scalding liquids), or ultraviolet radiation. Superficial (or first-degree) burns are characterized by redness, swelling, and peeling of the skin; partial-thickness (or second-degree) burns are marked by penetration of damage beyond the skin layer, which can be blistered and dull white to cherry red and streaked with coagulated capillaries; full-thickness (or third-degree) burns damage tissues that are subcutaneous or deeper, including epithelial tissue, nerve endings, and blood vessels; and fourth-degree burns are usually identified by a distinct odor and the appearance of charred flesh. Because of sometimes excruciating pain and cosmetic damage, severe burn injuries are often mentally traumatic, and psychological help is recommended along with medical
treatment.