Corrosive Injuries to the Oesophagus – Need to Stem the Tides

Abstract

Background: This study reviewed cases of corrosive oesophageal injuries that presented in our hospital, aetiological agents associated sequel and proffer ways on how the menace and its catastrophic effect could be stemmed in our locality. Methods: A 15-year cross-sectional descriptive review of patients that were managed for corrosive ingestion at UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria between December 2009 to November 2024 Results: A total of 46 patients consisting of 36 males and 10 females with M: F ratio 3.6:1 and age ranged from 2years to 65years. Majority 39.1% were children 1 – 15 years followed by young adult 16 – 30 years 34.8%. The mode of ingestion was accidental among the children and by deliberate self-harm among the adults. Caustic soda ingestion formed the preponderance of the corrosive ingested 76.1% and majority 60.9% presented late. All the patients were admitted and managed with intravenous fluids, antibiotics, steroids, H-2 receptor blocker. Those who presented early had nasogastric tube inserted for stenting and feeding. Twelve patients (26.1%) had psychiatric illness and 30.4% developed strictures, 5 patients with short segment stricture were managed with serial oesophageal dilatation. There were 3(6.5%) mortalities secondary to oesophageal perforation Conclusion: Corrosive injuries to the oesophagus are a serious public health issue associated with high morbidity and mortality in our locality. Illiteracy, poor socioeconomic status/ economic burden, psychiatric illnesses are some factors contributing to the high incidence of this problem. Suggestions on steps to stem the tides of this menace in our locality were discussed.