What Is Boric Acid?
Boric acid is a white, crystalline, and odorless powder commonly used for various purposes, such as pest control, medicinal purposes, and industrial applications. It is derived from the mineral boron, which is found in rocks, soil, water, and plants. Boric acid is soluble in water and has a slightly acidic taste. It is an agent with mild antiseptic, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It has a melting point of 171 degrees Celsius. It is also known for its astringent properties and functions as a conjugate acid of a dihydrogen borate.
What Are the Applications of Boric Acid in the Medical Field?
The common medical applications of boric acid include the following:
-
Vaginal Infections: Boric acid suppositories are used to treat vaginal yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. It works by balancing the pH levels in the vagina and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria.
-
Eye Infections: Boric acid is used in eye washes and ointments to treat eye infections such as conjunctivitis (an inflammation of the conjunctiva) and styes (localized infections or abscesses that develop at the base of the eyelashes or within the eyelid). It works by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria.
-
Ear Infections: Boric acid is used in ear drops to treat ear infections and to help remove earwax. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce pain and swelling.
-
Treatment of Skin Conditions: Boric acid is used in the treatment of skin conditions such as eczema (a skin condition that causes red, itchy, and dry patches on the skin), psoriasis (a chronic autoimmune skin disorder marked by red, scaly patches on the skin), and acne. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe skin irritation and reduce redness.
-
Wound Care: Boric acid is used in wound care as an antiseptic and to promote healing. It can be applied topically to minor burns, cuts, and scrapes to prevent infection and promote skin regeneration.
-
Anti-fungal Treatment: Boric acid is used to treat fungal infections such as athlete's foot and nail fungus. It works by disrupting the cell membranes of the fungus, preventing its growth and spread.
-
Preservative: Urine sample bottles frequently contain boric acid to preserve the quality of the specimen during transportation to the laboratory.
What Is Boric Acid Toxicity?
Boric acid toxicity is a condition that occurs when a person is exposed to high levels of boric acid, either through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Boric acid is a toxic substance that can cause harm to humans. Exposure to this chemical can lead to both acute and chronic toxicity. Ingestion of powdered roach-killing products that contain boric acid is a common cause of acute toxicity. This chemical is highly caustic and can cause tissue damage upon contact. Chronic toxicity occurs when individuals are repeatedly exposed to boric acid. In the past, boric acid was commonly used to disinfect and treat wounds. However, some people who received this treatment often became sick, and in severe cases, death occurred.
The lethal dose of boric acid for adults is estimated to be 15 to 20 grams, while a dose of 5 to 6 grams can be fatal for children. Symptoms of toxicity may occur at doses as low as 0.5 grams. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set a permissible exposure limit of one milligram per cubic meter of air over an eight-hour workday.
What Are the Causes of Boric Acid Toxicity?
Boric acid toxicity occurs through exposure to boric acid in various ways, which include:
-
Accidental ingestion of boric acid can occur in children and pets, who may mistake it for food or candy. It can also occur in adults who misuse boric acid as a home remedy or in self-medication.
-
Occupational exposure happens in industries that use boric acids, such as glass manufacturing, ceramics, and pest control. Workers are at risk of boric acid toxicity due to exposure through inhalation or skin contact.
-
Overuse of products containing boric acids, such as insecticides, antiseptics, and cleaning agents, can lead to boric acid toxicity due to prolonged exposure to high levels of boric acid.
What Are the Symptoms of Boric Acid Toxicity?
Blue-green vomiting, diarrhea, and a bright reddish skin rash are the primary symptoms of boric acid toxicity. The other symptoms of boric acid toxicity manifest as stomach, skin, and nerve-related issues, which include:
-
Abdominal pain, decrease in urinary output, and low blood pressure. Sometimes, a metallic taste may be present in the mouth.
-
Skin irritation, burning sensation, and rash. This can result from direct skin contact with boric acid or exposure to boric acid-containing products such as creams or ointments.
-
Headache, fever, dizziness, lethargy, confusion, and tremors. In severe cases, it can cause seizures, coma, and even death.
-
Respiratory difficulties, kidney damage, and liver damage in severe cases.
How Can Boric Acid Toxicity Be Diagnosed?
Boric acid toxicity can be diagnosed by the following methods:
-
Medical History: The healthcare professional will take a detailed individual's medical history, including any exposure to boric acid, the duration and level of exposure, and any symptoms experienced.
-
Physical Examination: A physical examination may be conducted to evaluate the individual's overall health, check for skin irritation, and assess neurological symptoms.
-
Blood Tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for elevated levels of boric acid in the blood, liver function tests, and kidney function tests.
-
Urine Tests: Urine tests may be conducted to measure the levels of boric acid in the urine.
-
Imaging Tests: X-rays or CT (computed tomography) scans may be ordered to evaluate any damage to the kidneys or other organs. ECG (electrocardiogram) can be used to trace the heart's electrical activity.
-
Endoscopy: This medical procedure involves inserting a camera down the throat to examine the condition of the esophagus and stomach for burns.
What Is the Treatment for Boric Acid Toxicity?
Boric acid toxicity can be managed in the following ways:
-
Supportive Care: In cases of mild boric acid toxicity, treatment may involve supportive care to manage symptoms. This may include hydration, rest, and pain management. In cases of dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, fluids and electrolytes may be administered intravenously to restore normal levels.
-
Gastric Lavage: In severe cases of ingestion, gastric lavage may be performed to remove any remaining boric acid from the stomach.
-
Kidney Dialysis: In severe cases of boric acid toxicity that have caused kidney damage, kidney dialysis may be necessary to help remove the boric acid from the bloodstream.
-
Debridement: This surgical method involves removing the burned skin area in cases of skin exposure.
-
Surgery: If the acid has caused a hole (perforation) in the esophagus, stomach, or intestine, the patient may require surgery.
How to Prevent Boric Acid Toxicity?
Prevention of boric acid toxicity involves taking measures to minimize exposure to boric acid.
-
Follow safety guidelines for handling boric acid in industrial settings, such as wearing protective equipment and following proper disposal procedures.
-
Before using any products, read the label carefully to determine if it contains boric acid. If it does, follow the instructions and use it only as directed.
-
Keep products containing boric acid out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
-
Store products containing boric acid in a secure place and away from food, drinks, and medicines.
-
Ensure proper ventilation when using products that contain boric acid to minimize inhalation of the chemical.
What Is the Prognosis Of Boric Acid Toxicity?
The mortality rate among infants due to boric acid poisoning is high. The incidence of boric acid poisoning has significantly decreased compared to the past due to its discontinued use as a disinfectant in nurseries and reduced use in medical preparations. However, boric acid is still utilized as an ingredient in some vaginal suppositories for yeast infections.
Intake of a substantial amount of boric acid can cause severe harm to multiple body systems. The damage to the esophagus and stomach can persist for weeks after ingestion, and complications may result in death, even several months later. Perforations in the esophagus and stomach may lead to severe infections in the chest and abdominal cavities, which can also be fatal.
Conclusion:
Boric acid toxicity is a serious health concern that can cause significant harm if not properly managed. If exposure to boric acid occurs or if symptoms of toxicity are present, seek medical attention without any delay. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people recover fully from boric acid toxicity.
