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Survival after a massive hydrofluoric acid ingestion
1Department of Renal Medicine and Toxicology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown NSW, Sydney, Australia.
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Early, high-dose calcium therapy can be life-saving for severe hydrofluoric acid ingestion. This case demonstrates successful management of a lethal dose, preventing fatal arrhythmias and hypocalcemia.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Hydrofluoric acid (HF) ingestion is a medical emergency with a high mortality rate.
- Rapid development of hypocalcemia and fatal cardiac arrhythmias are the primary causes of death.
- Prompt and aggressive treatment is crucial for survival.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old male ingested a dose of hydrofluoric acid estimated to be six times the lethal dose.
- The patient experienced multiple episodes of ventricular fibrillation arrests.
- Despite the severe exposure, the patient survived with minimal long-term health consequences.
Findings:
- Survival was attributed to the early and aggressive administration of high-dose calcium therapy.
- Calcium was administered through both nasogastric and intravenous routes.
- This therapeutic approach effectively countered the systemic toxicity of hydrofluoric acid.
Implications:
- Early, high-dose calcium administration should be considered a critical intervention for severe hydrofluoric acid ingestion.
- This case highlights the potential for successful management even in cases of massive HF exposure.
- Aggressive calcium therapy may prevent life-threatening hypocalcemia and cardiac arrhythmias, improving patient outcomes.