Pediatric Caustic Ingestion: A Review Article

Abstract

Caustic ingestion injuries represent a significant morbidity and even mortality producing aerodigestive tract burns. Regarded as a major public health issue, caustic injuries may be produced by various chemicals including alkali and acid agents, phenols and oxidizing substances such as peroxides or chlorine bleaches. Public awareness including preventive measures is important in avoiding these injuries. The consequences of caustic ingestion may pose great challenge for both the patients, their families together with clinicians dealing with these children. In this review article it is aimed to discuss the clinical presentations, treatment modalities of these children under the light of relevant literature.