Quaternary Ammonium-Induced Cutaneous and Gastrointestinal Mucosal Lesions in a Dog

A dog developed severe ulcerative dermatitis and upper gastrointestinal mucosal ulceration after accidental exposure to a concentrated quaternary ammonium disinfectant solution. Secondary problems included dyspnea and cholestasis. Prolonged intensive care was required and included gastrostomy tube placement via endoscopy, extensive wound care, and systemic antibiotics. In contrast to earlier reports and although the offending compound was in higher concentration, contact irritation was much more severe yet no overt systemic toxic effects were noted. This case illustrates the great caution that must be exercised when handling commonly employed laboratory germicides.