Severe gastrointestinal burn with hydrochloric acid

Abstract

Inadvertantly or purposely, an oral intake of corrosive substances may cause life-threatening problems. Early admission to the hospital, clinical and endoscopic evaluation, and early surgery when required, may reduce morbidity and mortality. We report the case of a 49-year-old male patient, who had attempted suicide, by drinking about 800 mL of 25% hydrochloric acid, and who had severe intra-abdominal damage. The aim of this report is to state the fact that a good outcome is possible in severe burns caused by oral intake of corrosive substances, when fast, multidisciplinary, and appropriate management is provided on time.

Keywords: Corrosive ingestion; hydrochloric acid; intensive care unit.

Figure 1

Computed tomography scan of the abdomen at admission

Figure 2

Intraoperative perspective for severe intestinal burn

Figure 3

Totally resected material. Note the widespread of the burn

Figure 4

Black necrosis of the stomach