burn
burn (bern) n. tissue damage caused by such agents as heat, cold, chemicals, electricity, ultraviolet light, or nuclear radiation. Burns cause swelling and blistering; loss of plasma from damaged blood vessels may lead to severe shock. There is also a risk of bacterial infection. first-degree b. a burn affecting only the outer layer (epidermis) of the skin. second-degree b. a burn in which both the epidermis and the underlying dermis are damaged. third-degree b. a burn that involves damage or destruction of the skin to its full depth and damage to the tissues beneath.
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NEARBY TERMS
burn
