See also

• pH of >11.5 is likely to cause significant GI ulceration
• Attempt to obtain container to check contents and strength of substance.
• Corrosive potential varies with concentration of specific ingredients and preparations, ie liquid preparations are more likely to cause oesophageal burns than powders.
• Check preparations with Poisons Information Centre to determine whether ingested substance is weak, strong, irritant or corrosive in nature.

Assessment

Toxicity
Exposure may lead to severe burns of GIT, especially oesophagus
Absence of mouth or pharyngeal ulcers does not preclude gastro-oesophageal lesions

Management

• Activated charcoal is contraindicated
• If asymptomatic treat with fluid dilution: 10 ml/kg of water (max 250 ml)
• If asymptomatic after 4 hours and able to eat and drink the patient can be safely discharged
• If any symptoms, contact surgical registrar, & admit for oesophagoscopy.