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Hand warmer related corrosive injury
Y-J Tseng1, C-H Chen, W-K Chen
1China Medical University Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, No.2 Yuh Der Road, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan.
Clinical Toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|October 7, 2011
Summary
Ingesting hand warmer contents can cause severe corrosive injury to the esophagus and stomach, even with small amounts. Prompt gastrointestinal decontamination and medical management are crucial for intoxicated patients.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Corrosive injury to the esophagus and stomach from hand warmer ingestion is not well-documented.
- This case highlights a previously unreported complication of hand warmer intoxication.
Observation:
- An 84-year-old woman with dementia ingested hand warmer contents.
- Radiopaque patches were noted in the stomach and duodenum on imaging.
- Endoscopic examination revealed grade IIA corrosive injury to the esophagus and stomach.
Findings:
- Hand warmers contain iron powder, activated charcoal, salt, and vermiculite.
- Ingestion of even a single hand warmer packet can lead to significant corrosive injury.
- The patient recovered with deferoxamine and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider hand warmer ingestion in cases of unexplained corrosive gastrointestinal injury.
- Aggressive management, including gastrointestinal decontamination, is essential for patients with hand warmer intoxication.
- This case expands the understanding of hand warmer toxicity and emphasizes the need for prompt medical intervention.
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