What type of burn is characterized by damage to all layers of the skin?

A third-degree burn is characterized by damage to all layers of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. This type of burn often results in a white or charred appearance and may be painless initially due to the destruction of the nerve endings. The severity of third-degree burns typically necessitates more intensive treatment, such as fluid resuscitation, possible surgical intervention, and long-term rehabilitation. The healing process can be prolonged, and scarring is common, highlighting the depth of tissue damage involved.

In contrast, first-degree burns primarily affect the epidermis and are often red, dry, and painful without blisters. Second-degree burns extend into the dermis and can cause blisters and significant pain, but they do not penetrate all layers as third-degree burns do. Superficial burns, often synonymous with first-degree burns, are limited to the outer layer of skin and heal quickly without long-term implications.