Clinitest burns of the esophagus.
Five children developed esophageal stricture from the ingestion of a Clinitest tablet. The sodium hydroxide contained in these tablets induced a short, dense stricture that was resistant to dilation and necessitated resection. In all patients primary esophageal resection with end-to-end anastomosis was technically possible. Four of the patients needed two or more dilations postoperatively and 1 still requires dilation. Prevention of accidental ingestion by use of a childproof container and parental education about the caustic nature of Clinitest are both essential to eliminate this child health hazard.
D002057:Burns, Chemical / Q000209:etiology*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003251:Constriction, Pathologic; D004338:Drug Combinations; D004940:Esophageal Stenosis / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000601:surgery*; D004947:Esophagus / Q000293:injuries*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007202:Indicators and Reagents / Q000009:adverse effects; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D012972:Sodium Hydroxide / Q000009:adverse effects*
D004338:Drug Combinations; D007202:Indicators and Reagents; D012972:Sodium Hydroxide