Deep Second Degree Burn of Ferrous Chloride in a Worker at a Wastewater Treatment Facility

Mo, Young Woong; Lee, Dong Lark; Shin, Hea Kyeong; Jung, Gyu Yong

Abstract

FeClâ‚‚ is often used in stainless steel surface processing, wastewater treatment, or in laboratories. Effects of exposure to FeClâ‚‚ include predominantly systemic side effects that can occur when inhalation or oral intake occurs. However, it is known that skin irritation or burning can be caused by exposure to skin, but there has never been reported a case of deep FeClâ‚‚ burns. We will introduce a case of a patient treated with deep second degree burn due to FeClâ‚‚ exposure. A 27-year-old healthy man came in contact with FeClâ‚‚ on his right wrist. The patient didn't wear any protective clothing, and the clothes were contaminated with FeClâ‚‚ about one hour ago, but the patient was not aware of the danger of exposure. After an hour, the patient felt tingling, so he took off his exposed clothes and washed exposed skin, then came to our hospital. Initially there were mild erosion, erythema, and tingling symptoms. Two days later, eschar began to develop and wound began to deepen. Surgical procedure was not performed and it took 5 weeks for the patient's wound to heal. As a rule, workers using FeClâ‚‚ are required to wear protective clothing. In Korea, companies and laboratories using FeClâ‚‚ are not strictly required the use of protective clothing. Workers handling FeClâ‚‚ should be strictly encouraged to wear protective clothing, if exposed, should be instructed to visit the hospital after a quick washing away.