Partial-Thickness (Second-Degree) Burns and Tar Burns

Presentation

Partial-thickness burns can occur in a variety of ways. Spilled or splattered hot water and grease are among the most common causes, along with hot objects, explosive fumes, and burning (volatile) liquids. The patient will complain of excruciating pain, and the burn will appear erythematous with vesicle formation. Some of these vesicles or bullae may have ruptured before the patient’s arrival, whereas others may not develop for 24 hours. Tar burns are special in that the tar adheres aggressively to the burned skin and therefore makes the burns difficult to evaluate and very unsightly.