 |
This article does not cite any references or sources. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unverifiable material may be challenged and removed. (April 2007) |
A friction burn is a form of abrasion caused by friction when a person's skin rubs against a surface. It may also be referred to as "chafing," or called by the surface which caused the burn (e.g, "rope burn" or "carpet burn"). As friction also generates heat, extreme cases of chafing may result in genuine burning of the outer layers of skin.
The dermal papillae may be exposed after top layers of the dermis (stratum corneum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum and stratum basale) have been removed. This is often uncomfortable and even painful, but rarely results in bleeding.
A person's own skin (or the skin of another person) may be sufficient to act as an abrasive surface to cause friction burn. More commonly, friction with abrasive surfaces, including clothing, carpet, or rope, can lead to a friction burn. Common places at which skin-to-skin chafing can occur are between the thighs and under the armpits.
The major risk in assessing friction burns is misdiagnosis. Another risk is infection.
Treatments
Treatments for friction burns usually involve application of an anti-inflammatory cream. Pain relieving medication may also be taken.
One of the underlying factors behind abdominal chafing (inguinal friction) may be obesity, and weight loss may be indicated as a preventative measure.
See also
This entry is from Wikipedia, the leading user-contributed encyclopedia. It may not have been reviewed by professional editors (see full disclaimer)
