Wet cement: a poorly recognized cause of full-thickness skin burns.
Cement is a rare cause of full-thickness burns. We have examined the aetiology, frequency and severity of these burns, and assessed public awareness of the potential of cement as a caustic agent. Of patients, 95 per cent were unaware of the potential of cement to cause burns, and none had seen precautionary warnings on cement bags or delivery dockets. Factors important in burn production appear to be alkalinity, duration of contact and the abrasive nature of the cement particles. It is concluded that doctors, especially casualty officers, should know of the potential of progressive full-thickness burns from wet cement. General public awareness should be increased. The cement manufacturers were asked to comment on the content of this paper.
Boyce
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DE
Welsh Centre for Burns, Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery, St Lawrence Hospital, Chepstow, Gwent, UK.
Dickson
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WA
D000328:Adult; D002057:Burns, Chemical / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000139:chemically induced; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008297:Male; D011356:Product Labeling; D012449:Safety; D012621:Seasons; D012823:Silicate Cement / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000737:chemistry; D013997:Time Factors
D012823:Silicate Cement