What can full thickness burns be caused by?

Full thickness burns, also known as third-degree burns, are characterized by the destruction of both the epidermis and the dermis, potentially affecting deeper tissues like fat, muscle, and bone. They are usually caused by exposure to high temperatures, which can destroy nerve endings and blood vessels in the skin.

Prolonged exposure to 150°F can indeed lead to full thickness burns. This is primarily because such a temperature can cause severe damage over time; tissues begin to break down when subjected to extremes of heat, leading to a more severe burn. The higher the temperature and the longer the skin is exposed, the greater the potential for these serious injuries.

In contrast, exposure to cold temperatures, alcohol, or friction injuries would not lead to full thickness burns. Cold temperatures can cause frostbite rather than burns, while alcohol does not produce the necessary heat to cause thermal burns. Friction injuries can lead to abrasions or superficial burns, but they do not penetrate deep enough to cause a full thickness burn. Therefore, prolonged exposure to high temperatures is the primary cause of these severe injuries.