Çocuklarda Zehirlenmeler, Doç.Dr.Güntülü Şık, Editör, Türkiye Klinikleri Yayınevi, Ankara, ss.91-95, 2026
Household chemicals include cleaning agents, detergents, disinfectants, cosmetics, personal care items, and insecticides. Poisonings most commonly occur due to accidental ingestion in children under five and intentional exposure in adolescents. The most frequent exposure results from ingestion of cleaning products. Strong alkaline agents (pH >12) penetrate deeply into tissues, causing severe esophageal injury. On the other hand, acidic substances are generally consumed in smaller quantities due to their bitter taste and cause damage to the gastric mucosa. Clinical manifestations range from asymptomatic to life threatening shock. Preservation of cardiopulmonary function is the main priority; decontamination or neutralization is not recommended. Endoscopy should be performed within 12-24 hours in symptomatic cases. Long term complications include esophageal stricture and, rarely, carcinoma. Early diagnosis and proper management are essential to reducing morbidity.