Increased wound pH as an indicator of local wound infection in second degree burns.

•We measured the pH of the exudates from second degree burns in 26 cases using pH indicator strips.•Among these, local burn wound infection developed in 6 cases (Staphylococcus aureus in 2 cases and Staphylococcus epidermidis in 4 cases).•In cases of local infection, the pH rose prior to the onset of clinical signs of local burn infection.•In the non-infected cases, the pH decreased along with epithelialization.•This measurement is very easy and results are available immediately and is considered to be a useful indicator in the treatment of second degree burns.