CUTANEOUS BURNS CAUSED BY SULFURIC-ACID DRAIN CLEANER

Background: Highly concentrated solutions of sulfuric acid are availab le to unclog drains. We have noted a substantial number of both accide ntal and intentional cutaneous burns caused by these agents. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of children and adults who sustai ned sulfuric acid burns over a 13-year period ending in May 1996. Repo rts of injuries related to drain cleaners filed with the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission between 1991 and 1995 were also re viewed. Results: Twenty one patients (13 children, 8 adults) sustained cutaneous burns caused by concentrated sulfuric acid solutions. In 8 instances, the burn was accidental, whereas in 13 cases, sulfuric acid was used as a weapon. Median total body surface area burned was 5% (r ange, 1-25%). Approximately 50% of burns involved the face and neck. S kin grafting was required in 14 patients (66%). It is estimated that n ationwide approximately 3,000 injuries per year are related to drain c leaners and that one-third of these involve cutaneous burns. Conclusio n: Highly concentrated sulfuric acid drain cleaner can produce full-th ickness cutaneous burns that require skin grafting in the majority of cases. Proper use of these agents and sequestering them from children may reduce accidental contact; however, their abuse as agents of assau lt remains a source of significant morbidity.