Oral Manifestations of Household Disinfectant Exposure: Two Case Reports and Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: The main chemical component of household disinfectants is Hydrochloric acid (HCL). Exposure to this harmful chemical can result in mild to severe tissue injuries and is termed as allergic dermatitis. Oral mucosa undergoes such state, termed allergic/contact stomatitis manifesting as chemical burn when exposed to these chemicals. Due to unrestricted availability, accidental exposure of oral cavity to commonly used disinfectants may produce mild to severe injuries and even life-threatening in certain scenarios. Two cases presented here to insist on the allergic reaction caused by the accidental and misconceptional exposure of oral mucosa to household disinfectants and their clinical presentation with management. In the first case the accidental exposure of oral mucosa to a drain cleaner and its clinical presentation in a 30 year female patient. The second case is about a 26 year male patient who has placed the disinfectant over the decayed tooth.

Conclusion: Oral allergic lesions results in allergic stomatitis, an allergic condition with significant morbidity. The severity may be directly related to the type, quantity of the materials and the duration of exposure to the material. Timely diagnosis and appropriate management along with elimination of causative allergen quickly may be helpful in complete resolution of the manifestations.