What are Lichtenberg burns also known as?

Lichtenberg burns are commonly known as electrical burns. These burns are characteristic patterns that appear on the skin as a result of a high-voltage electrical shock. The name "Lichtenberg" is derived from the German physicist Franz Anton Lichtenberg, who first described these patterns.

The unique appearance of Lichtenberg burns, often resembling tree-like or fern-like patterns, is caused by the passage of electrical current through the body, creating superficial burns on the skin's surface while potentially causing deeper tissue damage underneath. This distinguishes electrical burns from other types, such as friction, chemical, or filigree burns, each of which has different causes and manifestations.

In contrast, friction burns occur due to the skin rubbing against a hard surface, leading to abrasions. Chemical burns are the result of skin exposure to corrosive substances, which can cause tissue damage. Filigree burns, while a term sometimes associated with superficial burns, are not commonly used in the context of electrical injuries. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in forensic medicine for accurate injury assessment and cause identification in cases involving electrical accidents.