BACKGROUND: Highly concentrated solutions of @entity8316 are available to unclog drains. We have noted a substantial number of both accidental and intentional cutaneous burns caused by these agents. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of @entity1 and adults who sustained @entity8316 burns over a 13-year period ending in May 1996. Reports of injuries related to drain cleaners filed with the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission between 1991 and 1995 were also reviewed. RESULTS: Twenty-one @entity1 (13 @entity1 , 8 adults) sustained cutaneous burns caused by concentrated @entity8316 solutions. In 8 instances, the burn was accidental, whereas in 13 cases, @entity8316 was used as a weapon. Median total body surface area burned was 5% (range, 1-25%). Approximately 50% of burns involved the face and neck. Skin grafting was required in 14 @entity1 (66%). It is estimated that nationwide approximately 3,000 injuries per year are related to drain cleaners and that one-third of these involve cutaneous burns. CONCLUSION: Highly concentrated @entity8316 drain cleaner can produce full-thickness cutaneous burns that require skin grafting in the majority of cases. Proper use of these agents and sequestering them from @entity1 may reduce accidental contact; however, their abuse as agents of assault remains a source of significant morbidity.

Cutaneous burns caused by XXXX drain cleaner.

@entity1 :: ('9606', 'Species') :: ['patients', 'children'] @entity8316 :: ('MESH:C033158', 'Chemical') :: ['sulfuric acid']
@entity8316 :: (MESH:C033158,Chemical) :: ['sulfuric acid']
