Why is the Zargar classification of caustic ingestion injuries important?
Endoscopic classification is important prognostically. Grade 0, 1 or 2a burns usually recover without long term effects. Whereas grade 2b or 3 burns tend to be associated with esophageal or gastric strictures which may require long term interventions. Patients who develop higher grade esophageal burns are also at increased esophageal cancer risk.
Levine, M., Finkelstein, Y., Trautman, W.J. et al. Is EGD Needed in all Patients after Suicidal or Exploratory Caustic Ingestions?. J. Med. Toxicol. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13181-024-01003-2
Contributed by Sheila Goertemoeller, PharmD DABAT
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