Authors observed clinically 34 cases of the corrosive esophagitis caused by various corrosive agents at Kyung Hee University Hospital from Aug. 1978 to Dec. 1980. The results obtained were as follows: 1) Among the 34 patients, male was 19(55.9%) and female 15(44.1%). Most frequently found age was 3rd decade. 2) 18 cases(52.9%) came to the hospital within 24 hours after ingestion of the agents and 13 cases(38.2%) within 2 to 7 days. 3) Seasonal distribution showed most frequently in spring(35.3%). 4) The moment of the accident was suicidal attempt in 27 cases(79.4%) and misdrinking in 7 cases(20.6%). 5) Acetic acid was a most commonly used agent, showing 23 cases(67.6%), lye and insecticides were next in order. 6) Common chief complaints were swallowing difficulty and sore throat. 7) The average hospital days was 14.8 days. 8) Esophagogram was performed between 3 to 7 days after ingestion in 13 cases(38.2%), findings were constrictions on the 1st narrowing portion in 4 cases(30.8%) and within normal limits in 3 cases(23.1%). 9) Esophagoscopy was performed in 31 cases(91.2%) between 2 to 7 days after ingestion, which revealed edema and coating on entrance of the esophagus in 9 cases(29.0%). Diffuse edema on entire length of the esophagus and within normal limits were next in order. 10) Laboratory results were as follows: Anemia was in 1 case(2.9%), leukocytosis in 21 cases(61.8%), increased ESR in 9 cases(26.5%), markedly increased BUN and creatinine in 3 cases(8.8%), and hypokalemia in 1 case(2.9%), proteinuria in 10 cases(29.4%), hematuria in 4 cases(11.8%), and coca-cola urine in 3 cases(8.8%). 11) Associated diseases were 3 cases(8.8%) of cancer, 1 cases(2.9%) of diabetes mellitus, and 1 case(2.9%) of manic depressive illness. 12) Various treatment was given: Esophageal and gastric washing in 23 cases(67.6%) for the emergent treatmen, antibiotics in 32 cases(94.1%), steroids in 30 cases(88.2%), bougienation in 5 cases(14.7%), hemodialysis in 1 case(2.9%), and partial esophagectomy with gastrostomy and gastroileal anastomosis in 1 case(2.9%). 13) Serious complications were observed in 9 cases(26.5%), consisted of 6 cases(17.6%) of esophageal stricture, 1 case(2.9%) of acute renal failure, 1 case(2.9%) of pneumomediastinum with pneumonia, and 1 case(2.9%) of pneumonia. |