A Case of Cyanoacrylate Glue Burns in a Two-Year-Old Child

Abstract

Cyanoacrylate is an organic monomer. Cyanoacrylate compounds are highly unstable and they undergo hydroxylation reaction by an exothermic reaction in the presence of hydroxyl (-OH) group like water or a weak base. 1,2 This reaction is catalyzed by cotton and wool. It is advised not to use cotton gloves while handling these compounds. 3 Kelemen et al in their study showed that, on an average, theheat produced during this exothermic reaction is 68°C for 12.2seconds, which is suf fi cient to cause a full-thickness burn. 4 Even though the use of these compounds are ubiquitous, the awareness regarding the burns caused by these compounds is poor