Hydrofluoric Acid

Abstract

Hydrofluoric acid (glass etching acid) is a weak acid with a strong toxicity. Patients can be exposed to glass etching acid through various routes, including skin or eye exposure, inhalation and ingestion. Most patients exposed by skin exposure. Hydrofluoric acid is absorbed into the deeper tissues and broken down into hydrogen ions and fluoride ions. Fluoride ions avidly bind to blood calcium ions, resulting in low blood calcium levels and severe pain. The patients who exposed to hydrofluoric acid with a concentration greater than 20% over a wide area (> 2.5% of the body surface area) may develop systemic toxicity, which can be life-threatening. The antidote for treatment of hydrofluoric acid poisoning is calcium gluconate which can be prepared in an appropriate dosage form and strength for individual patient treatment. The skin lesions, electrocardiogram and serum electrolyte should be investigated in patients with hydrofluoric acid ingestion, extensive skin exposure and prolonged inhalation of hydrogen fluoride gas or hydrofluoric acid fumes. In the presence of abnormal electrocardiogram, intravenous calcium gluconate should be administered immediately without waiting for the results of blood electrolyte level test.