Alkaline ingestions

Alkaline ingestion is a potentially life-threatening problem that may confront the emergency physician. It is similar to many other toxins in that children and those who attempt suicide are its most common victims; however, implications in terms of initial stabilization and definitive care are quite distinct. Mucosal exposure to lye results in a quick, deep liquefactive necrosis. Consequently, blind nasotracheal intubation may result in the perforation of damaged tissues in the pharynx and trachea. For similar reasons, the blind passage of a nasogastric tube is contraindicated. The use of diluents in this setting is controversial. If a diluent is used, water and milk are considered the liquids of choice. They may be used to irrigate oropharyngeal burns, but are contraindicated in the face of respiratory compromise, shock, liquid lye ingestion, and perforation of the esophagus or stomach. Cathartics and charcoal are not used after alkaline ingestion. Cathartics, however, are used in miniature alkaline battery ingestions to diminish bowel transit time. Esophagoscopy should be done within 12 to 24 hours after ingestion to directly observe the extent of damage. This procedure should be stopped at the first sign of injury to protect against iatrogenic esophageal perforation. Steroids should be started for circumferential esophageal burns and in those patients with significant injury who are unable to undergo esophagoscopy. IV antibiotics are administered for gastrointestinal perforation and may be used concomitantly with steroids. Miniature alkaline batteries lodged in the esophagus must be removed immediately. The available modalities include fluoroscopy-directed Foley catheter removal, endoscopy, and surgery.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)