Is it time for a change in the approach to chemical burns? The role of Diphoterine® in the management of cutaneous and ocular chemical injuries

Abstract

A multitude of household and occupational compounds have the potential to induce chemical burns to the eye and skin. Without prompt intervention, irreversible visual loss and disfigurement may prevail. Diphoterine^® and Hexafluorine^® are amphoteric and hypertonic chelating solutions used in the management of general chemical and hydrofluoric acid burns, respectively. They rapidly neutralise both acid and alkali agents without heat release and limit diffusion, making them superior to water irrigation alone. However, although Diphoterine^® and Hexafluorine^® uptake is slowly increasing in industrial workplaces, there is a paucity of education and use in both emergency departments and plastic surgery units worldwide. Herein, we present a case report of combined ocular and cutaneous acid burn treated with Diphoterine^®, together with a review of the current supporting literature.

Keywords: Chemical burn; Diphoterine; Hexafluorine; Review.