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Why do severe burns increase a person’s risk of infection?

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Immune stimulation by activated helper T cells — immune system Stimulation of immune response by activated helper T cells. Activated by complex interaction with molecules on the surface of a macrophage or some other antigen-presenting cell, a helper T cell proliferates into two general subtypes, T_H1 and T_H2. These in turn stimulate the complex pathways of the cell-mediated immune response and the humoral immune response, respectively.

Severe burns significantly increase the risk of infection because they destroy the skin, which serves as the body’s primary mechanical barrier against infectious microorganisms and harmful environmental agents.12

Under normal conditions, the epidermis acts as a protective shield, while skin glands secrete substances like fatty acids and lysozyme that actively inhibit or kill bacteria. When this barrier is compromised by deep or extensive burns, the body loses its first line of defense, allowing normally harmless bacteria to enter and cause serious infections. Consequently, maintaining the integrity of the skin is essential to a healthy immune system. While the use of topical antibacterial agents has helped reduce these risks, infection remains one of the most serious and potentially fatal complications for burn patients.123