Workup
Laboratory Studies
Evaluate electrolyte status. [7] Severe disturbances can occur, especially the following:
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Hypocalcemia
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Hypomagnesemia
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Hyperkalemia
Urinary fluoride levels increase with the severity of burns and can be used to guide therapy in mass exposure incidents. [5]
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Imaging Studies
Obtain chest a radiograph if pulmonary edema is suspected. If burns to the fingers exist, perform digital radiographs to evaluate bone integrity.
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Other Tests
Cardiac monitoring with electrocardiography is necessary if burn is significant. Arrhythmias are a primary cause of death. Monitor for QT prolongation from hypocalcemia or signs of hyperkalemia.
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Media Gallery
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Grade 1 hydrofluoric (HF) acid burns of the fingertips. The patient has severe pain (maximum middle digit) with only minimal redness of the nail beds.
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Grade 3 hydrofluoric (HF) acid burns of the fingertips. Note how the nailbed and tip of the fingers have severely been injured, but the nails show no damage.
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