Intermediate
Technical
IVT
partial-thickness burn
Second-degree burn involving epidermis and varying depths of dermis.
Full Definition
A burn injury that extends through the epidermis and into portions of the dermis, classified as either superficial or deep partial-thickness. Superficial partial-thickness burns involve the papillary dermis and typically heal within 2-3 weeks with minimal scarring. Deep partial-thickness burns extend into the reticular dermis and may require surgical intervention if healing is delayed beyond 3 weeks. These burns are typically painful and may blister.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenation required when used as adjective; distinguish carefully between superficial and deep subtypes.
In Context
- "Superficial partial-thickness burns to the anterior chest were managed conservatively with dressing changes." — treatment plan
- "Deep partial-thickness burns that fail to heal within three weeks typically require excision and grafting." — clinical guideline
Also known as
second-degree burn
partial-thickness injury
Contrasted with
full-thickness burn
superficial burn
Don't confuse with
full-thickness burn
superficial partial-thickness burn