Background: Chronic wounds represent a worldwide problem. For laborato
ry and clinical research to adequately address this problem, a common
language needs to exist. Observation: This language should include a s
ystem of wound classification, alexicon of wound descriptors, and a de
scription of the processes that are likely to affect wound healing and
wound healing end points. Conclusions: The report that follows define
s wound, acute wound, chronic wound, healing and forms of healing, wou
nd assessment, wound extent, wound burden,and wound severity. The util
ity of these definitions is demonstrated as they relate to the healing
of a skin wound, but these definitions are broadly applicable to all
wounds.