Friction burns: epidemiology and prevention.

This epidemiological study deals with 60 patients with friction burns between January 2004 and January 2006. The age group most affected was that between 21 and 30 years, with male predominance. Road traffic accidents were the commonest cause of friction burns (56 patients), and the lower limb was the most frequently affected part of the body. Patient management was performed according to the degree of the burn injury. It is suggested that most friction burn injuries are neglected on admission. They require proper care and can be prevented by the wearing of protective clothing, a helmet, and shoes while riding a motorcycle.