[Chromic acid burns: systematic prevention of systemic toxicity]

Ann Chir Plast Esthet. 2007 Dec;52(6):621-3. doi: 10.1016/j.anplas.2007.02.009. Epub 2007 Apr 3.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Chromic acid burns can lead to systemic toxicity by cutaneous absorption of the chrome seen surfaces more than 1% of the total body surface area. In order to illustrate the necessity of anticipate systematically this toxicity by a specific treatment, we describe the case of a patient with systemic toxicity in the least severe situation of chromic acid burn: the chromic acid was diluted to 0,02%, the burn was superficial second degree, both thermic and chemical, on the forearm, and extended only to 1% of the total body surface area. In spite of the specific treatment, our patient had a blood transfer of the chrome, however without any consequences on the renal and hepatic functions. He cicatrised in 2 weeks, and his blood and urinary chromium levels were normalised in 3 weeks. Without this specific early treatment, what would have been the consequences of a systemic toxicity even more important?

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Burns, Chemical / etiology*
  • Burns, Chemical / prevention & control*
  • Chromates / adverse effects*
  • Chromates / blood
  • Chromates / urine
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Skin / metabolism

Substances

  • Chromates