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Updated: Jul 25, 2026
11:38
High Content Screening Analysis to Evaluate the Toxicological Effects of Harmful and Potentially Harmful Constituents (HPHC)
Published on: May 10, 2016
Chromic acid burns: early aggressive excision is the best method to prevent systemic toxicity
P Matey1, K P Allison, T M Sheehan
1Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns, University Birmingham Hospital NHS Trust, Selly Oak Hospital, England.
The Journal of Burn Care & Rehabilitation
|June 13, 2000
Summary
Chromium poisoning can result from skin absorption, even from minor burns. Early surgical removal of burned skin is crucial to prevent systemic chromium toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Dermatology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Cutaneous absorption of chromium can lead to systemic poisoning.
- Burns, even small ones (1% total body surface area), pose a risk for chromium absorption.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient with 10% total body surface area burns from hot chromic acid.
- Quantified chromium levels in excised skin, urine, serum, and red blood cells.
- Assessed chromium removal via peritoneal dialysis.
Findings:
- The chromium load and systemic toxicity risk from burn injuries are unpredictable.
- Significant chromium levels were found in various biological samples.
Implications:
- Early excision of chromium-burned skin is essential for preventing systemic toxicity.
- This case highlights the severe risks associated with chromic acid burns.
- Further research is needed to predict chromium load and optimize treatment strategies.
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