IWO CASE STUDIES INVOLVING THE INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM Case #1
A 27-year-old male was involved in a gasoline explosion and sustained burns to his face, neck, chest, and arms. Upon arrival at the emergency room, he complained of intense pain in his face and neck, both of which exhibited extensive blistering and erythema (redness). These findings were all curiously absent on the burned chest and arms, which had a pale, waxy appearance. Examination revealed the skin on the patient's chest and arms to be leathery and lacking sensation. The emergency room physician commented to an observing medical student that the burns that were present on the skin of these regions would require subsequent skin grafting in order to heal. Describe the differences between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd degree burns.
What areas of the male's body sustained 2nd degree burns and which areas of his body sustained 3rd degree burns? How do you know?
The chest and neck require skin grafting, but probably not the face. Why would the chest and neck?
What are the main functions of the integumentary system that can be compromised in burn victims?