Areas of partial- and full-thickness injuries should be recorded on an anatomic chart and then a percentage of TBSA computed First-degree burns are not included BSA calculations are inexact, and some burns may progress over time, so BSA estimates should be reassessed Description of Burn The language used to describe burn severity has evolved over time, from a nomenclature of degrees to a description of the anatomic depth of the burn ( Fig 104.2 ) A superficial burn (formerly called first degree) occurs when the epidermis is injured but the dermis is intact These burns are characterized by redness and a mild inflammatory response confined to the epidermis, without significant edema or bulla formation ( Fig 104.3A ) Superficial burns are not included in the calculation of burn surface area used for therapeutic decisions These minor burns may be painful and usually resolve in to days without scarring In a partial-thickness burn (formerly called second degree), the dermis is partially injured Partial-thickness burns can be characterized as either superficial or deep Superficial partial-thickness burns expose the rich capillary network in the dermis resulting in a pink-red color and moist appearance Blistering is often present ( Fig 104.3B ) Increased capillary permeability, resulting from direct thermal injury and local mediator release, results in edema These injuries are usually painful because intact sensory nerve receptors are exposed Healing occurs in about weeks, and scarring is usually minimal