Ulceration and stricture of the esophagus due to oral potassium chloride (slow release tablet) therapy.
A patient with no pre-existing history of gastrointestinal disease developed a benign stricture of the esophagus after taking potassium chloride slow-release tablets (Slow-K) while in the recumbent position in a coronary care unit. Management by bougienage using Malloney and Eder-Puestow dilators was undertaken and although complications occurred, a reasonably satisfactory result was obtained. The literature on potassium-induced stricture of the esophagus is reviewed in order to underscore the importance and severity of this complication and to suggest that this medical problem may be entirely preventable.
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000368:Aged; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D004935:Esophageal Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D004940:Esophageal Stenosis / Q000139:chemically induced*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011189:Potassium Chloride / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014456:Ulcer / Q000139:chemically induced*
D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D011189:Potassium Chloride