Chemical burns secondary to elemental metal exposure: two case reports

Elemental metal may react when exposed to water or moist air, producing both chemical and thermal burns. Two cases are reviewed: one involving the outpatient treatment of burns secondary to an elemental sodium exposure, and one involving the inpatient treatment of burns secondary to an elemental potassium exposure. Water is contraindicated in the initial management of such exposures. The wound should be covered with oil until removal of any unreacted metal is completed. Burns may then be regarded similarly to alkali exposures.