Which classification of burn is characterized by charring?

• A. Full thickness
• B. Partial thickness
• C. Superficial
• D. Subdermal

Answer: (A)

Charring signals a full-thickness burn. In this depth, all skin layers are destroyed, often extending into subcutaneous tissue, leaving a dry, leathery eschar. Because the burn destroys nerve endings, the area can feel numb or painless despite the severity. This contrasts with superficial burns, which affect only the outer layer and appear red and painful; partial-thickness burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis, typically with blistering and marked pain; and deeper or subdermal injuries imply damage beyond the dermis into deeper structures and aren’t characterized primarily by charred tissue. So the charred, leathery appearance specifically points to full-thickness injury.