A qualitative and quantitative analysis of protein loss in human burn wounds

This study qualifies and quantifies a significant protein loss in second degree burn wounds. Protein concentrations in wound fluid correlate highly with serum concentrations until 48 h post-burn. A patient's entire amount of serum proteins accumulates in wound fluid in a 20% TBSA burn within approximately 24 h. In contrast to capillary leak theory proteins and immunoglobulins extravasate to wound fluid even after 48 h post-trauma.