Burns is classified according to depth as First, Second, or Third degree. While depth of burns has little effect on management within 48 hours post injury, it has dramatic influence on wound care and overall mortality. First Degree burns involve only epidermis and heals within 5 to 10 days, wound is dry, does not form blister, but very painful. Second degree burns involves epidermis and extends into dermis. Wound heals in 2 to 3 weeks.
Third degree burns results in destruction of entire dermis and all deep epidermal elements.
These wounds are avascular and appear pale to carbonacious black. In children they may appear dark red. Thrombosed vessels may be visible. Nerve endings are destroyed and wound is painless and insensitive. If sodium or colloid containing fluid is not transfused in extensive burn patient, patient goes for hypovolemic shock and death.