Sunburn Questions & Answers

Updated: Aug 12, 2021
  • Author: Christopher M McStay, MD, FAWM, FACEP; Chief Editor: Joe Alcock, MD, MS  more...
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Questions & Answers

Overview

How is sunburn characterized?

What is the pathophysiology of sunburn?

What causes of sunburn?

Which factors increase the risk for sunburn?

What is the prevalence of sunburn in the US?

Which geographic regions are at highest risk for sunburn?

What are the Fitzpatrick categories of skin types and how are they used to prevent sunburn?

How does the incidence of sunburn vary by sex?

Which age groups are at highest risk for sunburn?

What is the morbidity and mortality of sunburn?

What should be included in patient education about sunburn?

Presentation

What are the signs and symptoms of sunburn?

Which physical findings are characteristic of sunburn?

What are complications of sunburn?

DDX

What are the differential diagnoses for Sunburn?

Workup

What is the role of lab studies in the workup of sunburn?

What is the role of imaging studies in the workup of sunburn?

What is the role of skin biopsy in the workup of sunburn?

Treatment

What is included in prehospital care for sunburn?

What is included in the medical care treatment for sunburn?

What is the role of steroids in the treatment of sunburn?

When is inpatient care indicated for the treatment of sunburn?

What is included in outpatient care for sunburn?

Which specialist consultations may be beneficial in the management of patients with sunburn?

How is sunburn prevented?

Medications

Which medications are used in the treatment of sunburn?

Which medications in the drug class Corticosteroids are used in the treatment of Sunburn?

Which medications in the drug class Analgesic, Miscellaneous are used in the treatment of Sunburn?

Which medications in the drug class Analgesic Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug are used in the treatment of Sunburn?