NCJ Number
246925
Journal
Child Abuse and Neglect Volume: 37 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2013 Pages: 485-488
Date Published
July 2013
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Bleach is a common household product which can cause caustic injuries.
Abstract
Bleach is a common household product which can cause caustic injuries. Its effects on mucosal tissues and the eye have been well-described in the literature. However, there is little information published regarding the appearance and effect of bleach on a child's skin. We report three children who sustained chemical burns after contact with bleach. All three children sustained accidental bleach burns while at home, and each child had a distinct brown discoloration to the skin from the injury. All three children had treatment and follow-up for their burns. Two of the children sustained more severe burns, which were extensive and required more time to heal. There was also long-term scarring associated with the severe burns. Like most burns, pain control is required until the injury heals.