CHEMICAL BURNS OF THE ESOPHAGUS: The Importance of Various Chemicals As Etiologic Agents in Stricture Formation

Abstract

THERE has been variable opinion as to the etiology and treatment of stricture of the esophagus as a result of chemical burns. This confusion has been not only with the general practitioner, internist, and pediatrician, but with the otolaryngologist as well. It is common knowledge that there is a greater preponderance of burns and stricture formation in the esophagus due to lye than to any other chemical. This is evidenced by the fact that a perusal of the literature discloses more articles dealing with lye alone than with all other substances. It was my observation, on my bronchoesophageal service at the Los Angeles County Hospital, that I could not remember any case of esophageal stricture from chemical burn that was not due to lye. Accordingly, case of burns from other causes referred down to me were not given the same drastic treatment accorded those with lye ingestion. Using this