An analysis of corrosive substance ingestion of children in eastern Turkey

In this study, we aimed at describing corrosive substance ingestion and related problems in Eastern Turkey. This type of injury is still a serious problem to be given a careful attention in our country like the other developing countries. The charts of children managed in our hospital with corrosive substance ingestion in the period of 1996- 2008 were evaluated retrospectively. Gender, age, ingested substance and the volume, symptoms, morbidity of caustic injury were considered in the analysis of the charts. We had 40 male and 35 female cases. 82% of children were under 5 years old. Mean age was determined as approximately 3.5 years. Bleach was the most common corrosive substance received and it was followed by hydrochloric acid. The volume of the ingested substance varied between 1-100 ml. The volume could not be estimated in 36 children. It was determined that 54% of ingested corrosive substance was in its original package. Twenty-five cases ingested the substance from food or drink containers that was stored somewhere in the kitchen. Five children had developed esophageal strictures. They were included in esophageal dilatation program. In our country the morbidity of caustic esophageal burn is still a problem that should be involved. Attention to the storage conditions and secured bottle cap seems to be the easiest and simplest way to prevent corrosive substance ingestion.