A review of chemical eye burns referred to the Blodgett Regional Poison Center.

We reviewed a random sampling of 500 cases of chemical eye exposures referred to the Blodgett Regional Poison Center from July 1, 1986 to December 31, 1986. While some injuries were encountered in laboratories and industrial plants, the great majority originated in the home (84.4%) and involved commonly used household products. Most exposures were acute and reported within minutes to 1 hr. Cases predominantly involved children suffering accidental exposure. The most common symptoms were eye discomfort (56.2%) and redness (26.4%), but many patients were completely asymptomatic (11.4%). The reported injuries included corneal burns or abrasions (23 cases), and conjunctivitis (7 cases). Only 8 cases (1.6%) were initially seen by an ophthalmologist. In virtually all cases, the recommended emergency treatment was immediate prolonged rinsing of the eye.

An analysis of arsenic exposures referred to the Blodgett Regional Poison Center.

Fifty-seven cases of acute arsenic exposure were referred to Blodgett Regional Poison Center from January 1985 through December 1985. We will summarize epidemiologic aspects, laboratory values and the types of arsenicals involved. Cases predominantly involved children ingesting sodium arsenate in the form of ant poison. A great majority were accidental exposures related to the home use of ant killers in contrast to previous reports of homicidal or industrial poisoning. Initial urine arsenic levels, symptoms and therapy will be included. Most cases were reported within hours with patients being asymptomatic or with relatively few complaints. The current Blodgett Regional Poison Center Arsenic Protocol and instructions for the preparation of D-penicillamine suspension adapted from the Blodgett Pharmacy Department will be included. Conclusions, outcomes and recommendations are discussed.