A solution of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) has many uses. Unfortunately it may be associated with a number of toxic reactions.
Variables affected toxicity:
(1) route of exposure
(2) volume
(3) concentration
(4) any deterioration in activity
(5) rapidity of response to the exposure
Potential routes of exposure:
(1) ingestion
(2) intravenous injection
(3) eye
(4) transmucosal
(5) transcutaneous, if there is a breakdown in the skin barrier
(6) inhalation
The most common effect is irritation.
Route
Special Toxicity
ingestion
esophagitis with stricture or perforation
ingestion or intravenous injection
hypernatremia, hyperchloremia, metabolic acidosis
intravenous injection
hemolysis with acute renal failure
inhalation
toxic chlorine gases (if mixed with acid or alkali)
eye
chemical keratitis
where:
• Commercial bleach is 13.3% sodium.
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Specialty: Toxicology, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
ICD-10: ,