An unusual laboratory accident: Bromine burn
Özet
Bromine is a water-soluble, severely toxic element. It leads to tissue injury by causing the release of radical oxygen species
from mucosal membranes. Redness or brownish discoloration of the skin, pain, measles-like rash, vesicles, blisters, pustules,
furuncles, burns, and ulcers may be seen in the acute phase. A 32-year-old male presented to the emergency department after
an accidental spill of bromine on his left forearm. Erythematous skin, including brownish discoloration and occasional small blisters, were seen on the forearm and wrist. The affected extremity was washed with plenty of water. The lesions were covered
with antibiotic cream and wrapped with sterile gauzes; they healed without any complications. Mild burn scars with slightly pale
discoloration of the affected skin remained after the lesions healed. Although bromine burn is rare, it causes severe damage to
the skin, and injury starts insidiously without causing a visible skin reaction at the beginning. Irrigation with plenty of water in
the early period is critically important in reducing the severity of the injury.
