The burnt male--intentional assault on the male by his partner

There are few studies which address the burnt male patient who has been intentionally assaulted by his partner. Thirty such patients were admitted to the Somerset Hospital Burns Unit between January 1993 and May 1995. The average age was 37 years and the mean total burn surface area was 19.6% (range 2-55%). A variety of agents had been used to inflict the burn, but throwing hot fluid at the victim was the most common. The head, neck and chest were the most common areas burnt. Five patients developed respiratory burns and 2 required ventilatory support. Three patients died: 1 of respiratory failure and 1 of septicaemia, while 1 committed suicide. The burnt and battered male patient is a real clinical entity which is becoming more common. Treatment should investigate psychosocial factors in addition to ensuring healing of the burn wound.