Chemistry of cement burns: pathogenesis and treatment.
Two brief cases are presented describing burns resulting from exposure to cement and its components. Of particular interest is the etiology of such burns. Do they result from a high pH solution in contact with the skin under abrasive conditions for an undetermined period of time, or are they a consequence of possible allergic reactions to chromium or chromates? Another possible factor that has been largely unexplored is the role of the calcium ion--the other principal ionic species with which the skin is in contact. Much has been written about its role in membrane transport and other physiologic processes.
Pike
J
J
Plastic Surgery Services, Yale-New Haven Hospital, Connecticut.
Patterson
A
A
Arons
M S
MS
D000328:Adult; D002057:Burns, Chemical / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D003252:Construction Materials / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps