Exploring the gaps: A scoping review of burn injury research in skin of colour.

Abstract

Burn injury management and outcomes reveal observed disparities in individuals with darker skin tones, likely influenced by limited representation in medical literature and clinical research. These gaps may contribute to variations in care quality and outcomes for these populations. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases, initially yielding 74 articles. Due to limited relevant studies directly addressing the research question, the approach shifted from a systematic review to a scoping review to allow for a broader exploration of potential disparities in burn injury outcomes. Following these criteria, 31 relevant articles were identified and analysed. The analysis suggests an underrepresentation of diverse skin tones in medical textbooks and clinical research, limitations in current burn assessment tools for darker skin, and a lack of tailored treatment protocols. Studies indicate that patients with darker skin tones may face higher risks of complications and varied outcomes, potentially influenced by systemic healthcare challenges and limited guidelines addressing diverse skin types. This scoping review highlights the importance of more inclusive research and clinical practices that consider the specific needs of individuals with darker skin tones. Addressing these observed gaps can support improvements in burn injury management, ultimately contributing to more equitable healthcare for all skin types.