A case of hydrogen peroxide-induced proctocolitis in a child

Abstract

Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial effects, and is frequently used to disinfect wounds and devices. However, when the colon is exposed to this chemical, reaction with catalase can cause acute colitis due to the release of oxygen. Symptoms include abdominal pain, hematochezia, diarrhea, and tenesmus. Colonoscopy findings of this condition, including white plaques, erythema of the surrounding mucosa, and multiple ulcers, are similar to those of other causes of colitis, such as ischemic colitis. Therefore, the differentiation is essential. Although several cases of hydrogen peroxide-induced colitis have been reported, there is a lack of relevant reports in children. We present here a pediatric case of hydrogen peroxide-induced proctocolitis with a literature review. This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB No. 2019-11042).