A Case of Chemical Injury of the Oral Mucosa Caused by a Desiccant

Abstract

Accidental ingestion and aspiration of desiccants is often seen in children and the elderly. Accidental ingestion of calcium oxide, a frequently used desiccating agent for food products, leads to corrosion of the mucosa due to heat and alkalinity, and the symptoms are easily aggravated compared to the ingestion of silica gel. This is a case report of a patient who received an extensive oral mucosal chemical injury due to the accidental ingestion of a desiccant. A 74-year-old woman visited our hospital after accidentally ingesting calcium oxide. Extensive ulceration of the oral mucosa, swelling of the tongue and dryness of the mouth were observed. During hospitalization, the symptoms improved with oral health care and nutritional management and the patient was discharged on hospital day 15. It is crucial that appropriate measures are taken based on the type of desiccant and the amount ingested.