Corrosive poisoning

Abstract

Corrosive ingestion is accidental in children. Though it forms a small group, it causes considerable morbidity and mortality. Corrosives are of 2 types, acids and alkalis. Corrosives produce coagulative necrosis and this depends on the concentration of the ingested material. Acutely, they present with intense pain, hemetemesis, respiratory distress, drooling, stridor and locally may cause burn injuries. Child may require acute care management of the airway, breathing and circulation. Steroids are given to prevent esophageal stricture if the child presents within 48 hours of ingestion. Endosopy is advised within 24 hours. Late complications like esophageal stricture has to be managed by periodic dilatation and surgical intervention as required. Prognosis with corrosive ingestion is guarded.