Accidental Trisodium Phosphate [Na₃PO₄] (TSP) Ingestion in a Child

It is not uncommon for a child to present to the hospital due to accidental ingestions, and oftentimes they are the result of a child accessing household cleaning or home improvement products. Typically, the upper gastrointestinal tract is the site of initial tissue insult and prognosis of these cases depends on a variety of factors, including the ingested substance, injury extent, and assessments and treatments rendered. Possible post-ingestion complications that make management difficult may include mediastinitis, hemodynamic instability, gastrointestinal perforation, erosion and scarring.

In this case, a 13-month-old boy accidently swallowed Trisodium phosphate [Na₃PO₄] (TSP), a common household all-purpose heavy-duty cleaner. After ingestion, the patient presented to the emergency department where a multi-disciplinary team-initiated care. Work-up included regular vital checks, electrolyte profiles, blood profiles and an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. He was eventually discharged and scheduled to return for follow-up with esophagram, without long term consequences.

Although the ingestion of TSP has occurred before, the literature regarding consumption of this specific detergent is negligible. This case provides evidence regarding the treatment and outcome of a paediatric patient who accidentally swallowed TSP and offers guidance in the management of their care.