Chemical burn
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
A chemical burn occurs when living tissue is exposed to a reactive chemical substance such as a strong acid or base. Chemical burns follow standard burn classification and may cause extensive tissue damage. The main types of irritant and/or corrosive products: acids, bases, oxidizers, solvents, and reducing agents.
Pathophysiology
Chemical burns may:
- Need no source of heat,
- Occur immediately on contact,
- Be extremely painful, or
- Not be immediately evident or noticeable.
Causes
Sparklers and other fireworks that give off sparks or flames can give chemical burns as well as heat-induced burns. Other common sources of chemical burns include silver nitrate (AgNO3), hydrochloric acid (HCl), lye (NaOH), and lime (CaO). Chemical burns may occur through direct contact on body surfaces including skin and eyes, inhalation, and ingestion.
Risk Factors
Chemical fabrication, mining, medicine, and related professional fields are examples of occupations where chemical burns may occur.
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
The exact symptoms of a chemical burn depend on the chemical involved. Symptoms include itching, bleaching or darkening of skin, burning sensations, trouble breathing, coughing blood, tissue necrosis, and death.