Hazardous effects due to alkaline button battery ingestion: an experimental study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Toxicology
• Pathology

Background:

• Button battery ingestion is a critical pediatric emergency.
• Previous studies have highlighted the dangers of button battery ingestion, but the precise mechanisms of injury require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mechanism and extent of gastrointestinal mucosal injury following button battery ingestion.
• To assess the role of battery discharge and leakage in causing tissue damage.

Main Methods:

• Commercially available button batteries were surgically implanted into the stomachs or appendices of rats.
• Battery voltage, mucosal pH, and histopathological changes were monitored at 8, 16, 24, and 48 hours post-implantation.

Main Results:

• Electrolytic reactions, characterized by reduced battery voltage and increased mucosal pH, preceded significant mucosal injury.
• Ulceration and perforation of the digestive tract were observed, with injury severity varying by battery type.
• Perforation and mortality occurred in some experimental animals.
• Mucosal injury was consistent in both fasted and non-fasted animals and occurred in both acidic and non-acidic gastrointestinal environments.

Conclusions:

• Button batteries can cause severe gastrointestinal mucosal injury via electrolytic discharge even before alkali leakage.
• The findings underscore the urgent need for prompt medical intervention following button battery ingestion.
• Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and preventative measures.