Template:Caustics background: Difference between revisions

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*Can be systemically absorbed and → metabolic acidosis, hemolysis, AKI
*Can be systemically absorbed and → metabolic acidosis, hemolysis, AKI
*Examples
*Examples
**Hydrochloric acid (HCl), hydrofluoric acid (HF), Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
**Hydrochloric acid (HCl), [[hydrofluoric acid]] (HF), Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
**Found in: auto batteries, drain openers, metal cleaners, swimming pool products, rust remover
**Found in: auto batteries, drain openers, metal cleaners, swimming pool products, rust remover

Revision as of 14:14, 8 November 2015

Caustics

  • Substances that cause damage on contact with body surfaces
  • Degree of injury determined by pH, concentration, volume, duration of contact
  • Acidic agents cause coagulative necrosis
  • Alkaline agents cause liquefactive necrosis (considered more damaging to most tissues)
  • Corrosive agents have reducing, oxidising, denaturing or defatting potential

Alkalis

  • Accepts protons → free hydroxide ion, which easily penetrates tissue → cellular destruction
    • Liquefactive necrosis and protein disruption may allow for deep penetration into surrounding tissues
  • Examples
    • Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), ammonia (NH3)
    • Found in: bleach, drain openers, oven cleaners, toilet cleaner, hair relaxers

Acids

  • Proton donor → free hydrogen ion → cell death and eschar formation, which limits deeper involvement
    • However, due to pylorospasm and pooling of acid, high-grade gastric injuries are common
      • Mortality rate is higher compared to strong alkali ingestions
  • Can be systemically absorbed and → metabolic acidosis, hemolysis, AKI
  • Examples
    • Hydrochloric acid (HCl), hydrofluoric acid (HF), Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
    • Found in: auto batteries, drain openers, metal cleaners, swimming pool products, rust remover