Burns: a review of the pathophysiology, treatment, and complications of thermal injury.

Thermal destruction of skin may result in severe local and systemic physiologic alterations. Although a majority of minor burns may be treated on an outpatient basis, the foot requires special consideration. A thorough understanding of the pathophysiology, treatment, and possible complications of burn wounds is necessary for the podiatrist to become a vital part of the specialized hospital care team and be successful in the outpatient management of thermal injuries.