Maceration of the skin and wound bed. 1: Its nature and causes

J Wound Care. 2002 Jul;11(7):275-8. doi: 10.12968/jowc.2002.11.7.26414.

Abstract

Maceration, caused by prolonged exposure to moisture, can complicate the healing of wounds, especially chronic ones. This paper--the first of three reviewing the literature on its aetiology and management--looks at how maceration occurs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bodily Secretions
  • Body Fluids
  • Exudates and Transudates / physiology
  • Humans
  • Skin Diseases / etiology
  • Skin Physiological Phenomena*
  • Water / adverse effects
  • Wound Healing / physiology*

Substances

  • Water