Comparative effectiveness of topical treatments for hydrofluoric acid burns.

Hydrofluoric acid (HF) burns are characterized by progressive tissue necrosis and severe pain. Numerous topical treatments have been proposed, yet few have been studied experimentally. The present study was designed to examine the comparative efficacy of recommended treatments. Hair on the hind legs of rats was removed and 48 hours later 70% HF was applied. Calcium gluconate, Zephiran (benzalkonium chloride), A + D Ointment, aloe gel, and magnesium ointment were applied topically and burn development was monitored. Calcium gluconate significantly reduced burn size as early as one hour after application. Significant protection continued for seven days after the single application. The other treatments were not effective in decreasing or delaying HF burn development. The results indicated that calcium gluconate ointment was the most effective topical treatment for HF burns.