Intermediate
Technical
IVT
flash burn
A superficial burn injury caused by brief exposure to intense heat or flame.
Full Definition
A flash burn results from momentary exposure to high-intensity heat sources such as explosions, electrical arcs, or sudden flame exposure. These injuries typically affect exposed skin areas and are characterized by their superficial depth despite the high temperatures involved. The brief exposure time limits deep tissue penetration, but the burns often affect large surface areas and may be associated with inhalation injuries or other trauma from the causative event.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as an adjective modifier.
In Context
- "The industrial accident resulted in flash burns to the worker's face and hands." — Incident report
- "Flash burn patients require careful assessment for concurrent inhalation injury." — Clinical guideline
Also known as
flash injury
Contrasted with
contact burn
scald burn
Don't confuse with
electrical burn
thermal burn