Corrosives (Oxalic)

Question 1

Pathophysiology of oxalate:

Answer 1

1. Local corrosive effect
2. Remote decalcification

Question 2

Remote effect of oxalic acid :

Answer 2

It combines with blood ionized calcium forming calcium oxalate

Question 3

When oxalic acid combines with blood calcium, it causes

Answer 3

Cardiac arrhythmia
Tetany
Convulsions
Blocking of renal tubules with calcium oxalates

Question 4

Clinical manifestations of oxalic acid toxicity:
1. Local corrosives:

Answer 4

Hot burning pain in the mouth, esophagus, and stomach together.
with repeated vomiting (unlike carbolic acid)

Question 5

Clinical manifestations due to remote hypocalcemia:

Answer 5

1. Tingling, numbness, muscle twitches in the face, and extremeties with carpopedal spasm.
2. Convulsions, arrhythmia, cardiac arrest.
3. Dysuria, oxaluria, hematuria, oligouria, and anuria

Question 6

Clinical manifestations due to chronic exposure to oxalic acid:

Answer 6

Skin contact leads to local erosion, which may lead to cyanosis and gangrene

Question 7

Management of oxalic acid toxicity:

Answer 7

Gastric lavage

Calcium should be given rapidly by every route: 10% calcium gluconate slowly IV or orally