Pediatric Caustic Ingestion

Abstract

Accidental caustic ingestion in the pediatric age group continues to be a controversial and difficult problem. This retrospective study gives clinical support to treating this problem with early esophagoscopy, steroids, antibiotics and dilatation. Four hundred two patients were evaluated for possible caustic burn of the esophagus. Of the 70 patients who had esophageal burns demonstrated at esophagoscopy and who were treated with steroids, antibiotics and dilatation, none developed strictures. The two patients not treated in this fashion developed strictures.

Beneficial effects of Ebselen on corrosive esophageal burns of rats

“…Theoretically, antireflux therapy, systemic antibiotics, and corticosteroids should help minimize esophageal stricture formation. Anti-reflux therapy prevents further chemical trauma, antibiotics decrease bacterial infection, and corticosteroids inhibit inflammation and collagen deposition [24][25][26]. Anderson et al [27] reported an 18 year prospective controlled trial of long-term corticosteroids and antibiotics (for 5-6 weeks, including steroid taper) in 60 children with corrosive injury of the esophagus.…”

Brain Abscess after Dilatation of Esophageal Stricture

“…Antibiotics and steroids are usually given as routine initial treatment. It is believed that antibiotic can hasten the normal repair process by decreasing the infection and reducing the amount of scarring, while steroids decrease the incidence and severity of stricture [1,10], Should esophageal stricture become apparent, various kinds of dilatation instru ments are available. Transient bacteremia following instrumentation of mucosal surfaces is well recognized.…”

Radiographic identification of ingested disc batteries

“…Further, our experimental work indicates that the disc battery may be tightly adherent to the esophagus, in part due to the products of corrosion, requiring considerable care in removal not allowed by the Foley catheter technique. Initiation of a program of burn management should be undertaken [1].…”