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Burn Caused by Abuse

Most burns are accidental. But some burns may not be accidental. Intentional burns, such as immersion in a bathtub of hot water, can occur in abuse situations. Suspect physical abuse of a child or vulnerable adult when:

  • Any injury cannot be explained or does not match the explanation.
  • Repeated injuries occur.
  • Explanations change for how the injury happened.

You may be able to prevent further abuse by reporting it.

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An intentional burn can also occur when a person burns himself or herself (self-inflicted burns). The person with a self-inflicted burn will need a mental health evaluation as well as medical treatment.

It is important to have intentional burns evaluated by a health professional.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised January 4, 2011

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 04, 2011
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

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