Venous thrombosis following intravenous injection of household bleach

Abstract

Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) is used extensively as a disinfectant or bleaching agent. Most studies describe ingestion or inhalation route of this product with rare complication and fatalities. Despite global daily exposures, data about bleach injection is limited. Here we report intentional infusion of 20 mL, sodium hypochlorite 5% diluted in 500 mL normal saline 1.5 h prior admission. Clinical manifestation included local pain and edema. There were no laboratory abnormalities in the patient. Doppler sonography revealed thrombosis in superficial (antecubital and basilic) veins. Limb elevation, warm compress, and ibuprofen relived pain and edema after 3 days.