What characteristic of alkali burns differentiates them from acid burns?

Alkali burns are characterized by continuous tissue damage, which can persist for hours or even days after the initial contact. This is largely due to the alkaline substances having the ability to penetrate deeper into the tissues, causing more extensive damage as they react with body fluids and tissues. The ongoing exposure leads to saponification, where fats in the tissue are converted into soap, further exacerbating the tissue injury.

In contrast, acid burns typically cause immediate coagulation of tissues, which can result in a protective barrier that limits the extent of the burn. Therefore, the distinctive feature of alkali burns is their potential to cause prolonged and continuous damage, making early and aggressive management critical to prevent further injury.