Abstract

DOCAMPO, Patricia Cynthia et al. Caustic alkali intake: Frequent and preventable poisoning with serious consequences. Acta toxicol. argent. [online]. 2017, vol.25, n.2, pp.47-51. ISSN 1851-3743.

Caustic are chemical substances capable of causing different degree of lesions, according to the product concentration, the time and the route of contact. The usual exposure is because of their use as household products such as drain openers and oven cleaners. Caustic alkalis produce tissue liquefaction necrosis. Ingestion causes edema, ulceration, bleeding, whitish plaques and intense fibroblastic activity with healing in three weeks. The esophagus is more affected than the stomach, especially when solids are involved. The observed sequel is esophageal stricture, requiring treatments as dilation or replacement surgery, with high morbilidad. The aim of the paper is to report three clinical cases and their long-term complications; review the initial management of patients who ingested caustic alkali, highlighting its multidisciplinary monitoring and prevention measures to avoid such serious accidents.

Keywords : Caustic alkali; Sodium hydroxide; Caustic alkali poisoning; Caustic substances.

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