Stephen J. Schueler, M.D.


Chemical Burn Overview

What are chemical burns?
A person with a chemical burn has damage to the skin caused by contact with a chemical. Industrial chemicals are the most common cause of chemical burns. Chemicals damage skin and underlying tissue by destroying proteins in the skin. The appearance of chemical burns can be similar to thermal burns, ranging from a first degree burn to second degree burn.

What are the symptoms of chemical burns?
Symptoms depend on the severity of the chemical burn. Common symptoms include skin pain, redness, and swelling. Deeper burns may cause blisters to form.

How does the doctor treat chemical burns?
Treatment for chemical burns may include skin irrigation to remove chemicals from the skin. Other treatment for burns may include wound care, burn cream, narcotic pain medications, and skin grafts.

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Last Updated: Nov 4, 2010 References

PubMed Chemical Burn References