What type of burn results in the loss of feeling due to damage through both skin layers and deep tissue?

The correct response identifies a fourth-degree burn, which is designated by its severity and the extent of tissue damage. In a fourth-degree burn, the injury penetrates through all layers of the skin, reaching deeper tissues such as muscles, tendons, and even bone. This extensive damage results in the destruction of nerve endings, leading to a complete loss of sensation in the affected area.

The defining characteristic of a fourth-degree burn is that it often requires surgical intervention and can result in significant complications due to the depth of tissue destruction. It contrasts with other burn degrees; for instance, first-degree burns only affect the outer layer of skin and cause pain and redness without deeper tissue involvement. Second-degree burns damage both the outer and underlying layer of skin, leading to blisters and swelling but still retain some sensation, while third-degree burns are characterized by the destruction of the skin's deeper layers and may not have pain due to nerve damage, but they do not usually extend to deeper tissues like muscles or bones.

Understanding the levels of burn severity is crucial for appropriate treatment and management in clinical settings.