Efectos tóxicos en piel causados por el uso de carbonato de calcio e hidróxido de sodio en trabajadores de camaroneras

Abstract

The global mortality rate for burns varies from 0.5 to 2 per 100,000 inhabitants, in Ecuador the mortality rate is 10,000 cases per year. The constant use of alkalis, called lime products, in shrimp ponds is common, as they help to regulate the pH and are used as buffers. The problem with these chemicals is in the direct handling to which workers are exposed, as they affect hands and face, the mechanism of injury will depend on absorption and interaction with the cell membrane. The aim of this research is to explain the toxic effects produced on the skin of shrimp workers by the use of CaCO₃ and NaOH, through an updated literature review. Based on a descriptive methodology, to obtain answers that allow us to know the toxic effects they cause on the skin, concluding that the appropriate use of these alkalis should be in concentrations of 1-10% for strong alkalis; CaCO₃ and 1-5% for strong alkalis; NaOH; given that direct exposure to the skin (experimented on rats) generates burns from DL50 doses of 6,450 mg/kg CaCO₃ and DL50 40mg/kg NaOH; lesions in the epidermis cause vascular and nervous alteration, causing electrolyte anomalies by chelation of soluble salts when Ca++ and Mg++ and free Na+ and K+ bonds are catatonically joined, resulting in cell death and necrosis; due to this, it is recommended in these cases to pharmacologically avoid combinations of calcium with ferric binders.