second-degree burn, a burn that affects the epidermis and the dermis, classified as superficial or deep, according to the depth of injury. The superficial type involves the epidermis and the papillary dermis and is characterized by pain, edema, and the formation of blisters; it heals without scarring. The deep type extends into the reticular dermis, is pale and anesthetic, and results in scarring. See also burn therapy.
