An overview of corrosive injury of the upper gastrointestinal tract: Discussion of types, clinical evaluation, and management procedures

Abstract

Corrosive substances continue to have an impact on the morbidity of children and adolescents in developing countries despite the intensive and extensive education programs directed at susceptible groups, legislations controlling the strength and handling of these substances, and preventive measures of labeling and packaging. The greatest impact is on children between 1 and 3 years of age. Oral lesions are not predictors of either the extent or the severity of the caustic lesion. Upper endoscopy is the cornerstone of the evaluation of the extent of the gastrointestinal injury. Upper endoscopy intervention, including early evaluation, stent insertion, and, stricture dilatation, is subject to discussion and debate.