What is Hydrofluoric Acid?
Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a highly corrosive and toxic substance composed of hydrogen and fluorine. Unlike other acids, HF can penetrate tissue and cause deep, painful burns. It is commonly used in industrial applications, such as glass etching, metal cleaning, and semiconductor manufacturing.
How Does Hydrofluoric Acid Affect the Body?
HF is unique among acids because of its ability to penetrate deep into tissues. Upon contact with skin, it can cause immediate pain due to its corrosive nature. More importantly, it forms insoluble salts with calcium and magnesium, leading to severe systemic effects including
hypocalcemia and
hyperkalemia. This can result in serious complications like cardiac arrhythmias and even death.
Dermal contact: Direct skin exposure can lead to severe burns and systemic toxicity.
Inhalation: Breathing in HF vapors can cause respiratory irritation, pulmonary edema, and systemic toxicity.
Ingestion: Swallowing HF, even in small amounts, can be fatal due to the rapid onset of systemic toxicity.
Skin contact: Immediate pain, redness, and deep tissue damage.
Eye contact: Severe pain, corneal damage, and potential blindness.
Inhalation: Coughing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and pulmonary edema.
Ingestion: Severe oral and esophageal burns, abdominal pain, and systemic toxicity.
How is HF Exposure Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of HF exposure is primarily clinical, based on the history of exposure and presenting symptoms. Laboratory tests may include:
Serum calcium and magnesium levels to assess for hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia.
Electrolyte panel to check for hyperkalemia.
ECG to monitor for cardiac arrhythmias.
Immediate decontamination: Remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area with copious amounts of water.
Calcium gluconate: Topical, intravenous, or intra-arterial calcium gluconate may be administered to neutralize fluoride ions and mitigate systemic toxicity.
Supportive care: This may include pain management, respiratory support, and cardiovascular monitoring.
What Are the Long-term Effects of HF Exposure?
Long-term effects of HF exposure can include chronic pain, scarring, and permanent tissue damage. Severe systemic toxicity can lead to long-term organ dysfunction, particularly of the heart and kidneys. Early and aggressive treatment is crucial for minimizing these long-term effects.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, goggles, and face shields.
Ensure proper ventilation when working with HF to avoid inhalation of vapors.
Implement safety protocols and provide training for individuals handling HF.
