Thermal Injuries and Chemical Burns

The two most common thermal injuries are burns and frostbite. These injuries can occur from exposure to extremes in temperature, resulting in tissue damage and loss. Burns, of course, are sustained when a hot object has contact with the skin for a sufficient amount of time to damage the skin and underlying structures. Conversely, prolonged exposure to cold results in what is commonly known as frostbite.

Chemical burns result from exposure of the skin to an acid or caustic chemical agent. Most commonly, the improper use of over-the-counter corn removers result in such burns. Chemical burns severity is dependent upon the strength or concentration of the chemical agent. Specific treatment usually involves removal and neutralization of the chemical agent.

In all of the above cases prompt treatment and evaluation can often prevent infection and further tissue loss.