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Severe tissue destruction in the ear caused by alkaline button batteries
1Department of Ear Nose and Throat Surgery, Kent and Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells, UK.
Postgraduate Medical Journal
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Leaking button batteries can cause severe tissue damage, including liquefaction necrosis, when lodged in the ear canal. Prompt removal is crucial to prevent necrosis of skin, bone, and tympanic membrane.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Button batteries contain corrosive electrolyte solutions that leak upon moisture exposure.
- External auditory meatus foreign bodies pose a risk of tissue damage.
Observation:
- Three cases of button battery impaction in the external auditory meatus are presented.
- Patients presented with varying degrees of tissue necrosis.
Findings:
- Leaking button batteries caused liquefaction necrosis of skin, bone, and tympanic membrane in all three cases.
- The corrosive electrolyte solution is the primary agent of tissue destruction.
Implications:
- Highlights the severe risks associated with button battery foreign bodies in the ear.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and management to prevent irreversible tissue damage.