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Table 6-31

ClassificationTissue DamageAppearancePainClinical Course
Superficial (first degree)EpidermisMild to fiery red erythema; no blistersVery painfulOrdinarily heals in 3–7 days
Partial thickness; superficial or deep (second degree)Epidermis and dermis
  • Superficial: mottled, moist, pink or red; may or may not blanch with pressure; usually blisters
  • Deep: dry-white or deep red
  • Superficial: extreme pain and hypersensitivity to touch
  • Deep: may or may not be painful
Healing takes 10–18 days; if infection develops in deep burn, it converts to full-thickness burn
  • Deep: often grafted
Full thickness (third degree)All layers of skin and subcutaneous tissueCharred, leathery or pale and dryUsually absentHeals only with grafting or scarring
*Fourth degreeAll layers of skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle, and boneBlackSame as full thicknessSame as full thickness

* Used in some classification systems. May require several days after a severe burn to determine fourth degree.