Dichloromethane-Induced Chemical Burn of the Hand: A Report of Two Cases

ABSTRACT

Dichloromethane is widely used as a solvent in paint removers. Unlike inhalation injury, contact injury caused by dichloromethane is not well known. Two patients who had undergone skin grafting to treat chemical burn of the hand caused by dichloromethane exposure were evaluated, and a literature review was done. Two healthy men aged 37 and 40 years visited our hospital with chief complaints of pain on the hands due to dichloromethane exposure. The patients had not worn protective clothing. Multiple bullae were initially noted. On the next day, fluctuation in bullae and purulent discharge were observed, and central eschar change was noted. On the 18th day after the burn, escharectomy and full-thickness skin graft were performed. Therefore, workers who use dichloromethane should wear protective clothing at workplaces. If exposed to the chemical, the worker should be instructed to do a quick wash and visit the hospital.