According to MayoClinic.com, silver sulfadiazine cream is a sulfa drug that kills bacteria and yeast organisms that cause wound infections, particularly in severe burns or where necrotic tissue may be present. Silver sulfadiazine is for topical application only. It should be applied in a layer 3 to 5 mm thick. Reapply the cream if it rubs off on bedding or clothing. The burned area should be constantly covered with a layer of the cream for the best protection and quickest healing. Wear sterile disposable gloves when applying the cream, and always follow your doctor's instructions for treating burns.
Severe Thermal Burns
Drugs.com lists silver sulfadiazine as the primary topical wound treatment for second- and third-degree burn victims. The cream eliminates bacteria and yeast that cause skin infections during the healing process. A layer of the cream should be kept on wounds continuously, with cleansing of the site and reapplication twice a day. Severe burns with necrotic tissue present require debridement; silver sulfadiazine cream should be applied with sterile gloves immediately following the procedure.
Chemical Burns
Silver sulfadiazine cream is effective in treating dermal chemical burns, according to burnsurvivorsttw.org. It should be used as for thermal burns; removal of necrotic tissue and daily cleansing are essential to maintaining an environment for healing. A layer of silver sulfadiazine cream keeps the area free of infection.
Sunburn
Severe sunburn with blisters is a second-degree burn. Merck advises that silver sulfadiazine cream should be applied to blistered sunburn as for other types of burns. Wash the area daily, and reapply the cream twice a day. If a secondary infection occurs it is usually late in the healing process, so use the cream for as long as your doctor advises.
Stasis Dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis is a skin inflammation of the lower legs caused by pooled venous blood. This may be caused by poor circulation from phlebitis or lymphatic disorders, which can cause inflammation and cell necrosis that may result in skin lesions. Merck recommends silver sulfadiazine cream to aid the healing of such lesions.
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