Intermediate
Technical
IVT
catastrophic burn
Extremely severe burn injury with poor prognosis, typically involving >80% TBSA or critical anatomical areas.
Full Definition
A catastrophic burn represents the most severe category of thermal injury, typically defined as burns involving greater than 80% total body surface area, or smaller burns in elderly patients with significant comorbidities. These injuries carry extremely high mortality rates and require intensive multidisciplinary care. The term also applies to burns involving critical areas such as face, hands, genitalia, or those complicated by inhalation injury in vulnerable populations.
Usage
Usage note: Reserved for the most severe burn injuries with typically poor prognosis.
In Context
- "The patient presented with a catastrophic burn requiring immediate burn center transfer." — Emergency department note
- "Family counseling was initiated given the catastrophic burn injury and associated prognosis." — Social work consultation
Also known as
massive burn
extensive burn injury
Contrasted with
minor burn
superficial burn
Don't confuse with
major burn
severe burn