Trichloroacetic Acid: Uses, Risks, and Availability

Q: Trichloroacetic Acid: Uses, Risks, and Availability

Hello Mr. <br>Wang：<br>1. <br>Trichloroacetic acid is a corrosive organic acid that can rapidly penetrate tissues, causing damage to the gastrointestinal tract and acidosis, rather than toxicity. <br>Prolonged skin contact (such as over one hour) can result in a burning sensation

Trichloroacetic acid is a chemical compound that has medical applications, particularly in dermatology. It is commonly used as a chemical peel agent for the treatment of various skin conditions, including warts, acne scars, and actinic keratosis. Its ability to remove the outer layers of skin makes it useful for cosmetic procedures

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of carboxylic acids.
It is considered toxic and can cause severe skin burns and irritation upon contact.
Its viscous nature may be due to its concentrated form, as it becomes less viscous when diluted with water.
Trichloroacetic acid is typically used in various industrial applications and can be purchased through chemical supply companies, but it is important to handle it with caution and follow safety regulations due to its hazardous properties.

Wang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/22

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology

Hello Mr.
Wang:
1.
Trichloroacetic acid is a corrosive organic acid that can rapidly penetrate tissues, causing damage to the gastrointestinal tract and acidosis, rather than toxicity.
Prolonged skin contact (such as over one hour) can result in a burning sensation, pain, and injury to the eyes, while dust can irritate the nasopharynx.
2.
Acute trichloroacetic acid poisoning (ingestion): Symptoms include burning pain in the mouth, throat, and abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension, brown or yellow discoloration around the mouth, and laryngeal edema leading to asphyxiation.
Acute poisoning (inhalation): Symptoms include coughing, pulmonary edema, chest tightness, sputum production, cyanosis, hypotension, and high pulse pressure.
3.
Chronic trichloroacetic acid poisoning (inhalation): Symptoms may include dental erosion followed by jaw necrosis, bronchial infections accompanied by chronic cough, and potentially leading to bronchopneumonia, depending on the concentration.
Trichloroacetic acid is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and chemical reagents.
It is also used as a precipitating agent for macromolecules (such as proteins, DNA, and RNA).
In medicine, as a component of chemical peels, trichloroacetic acid is significantly more effective than alpha hydroxy acids; its mechanism is not corrosive but rather involves protein denaturation.
The procedure should be performed by a more experienced physician to ensure safety and efficacy.
Regarding viscosity, it is not about dilution; obtaining it should be through a chemical supply store.

Wishing you a good start to the new year, and may you have peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2010/02/22

More Info

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of carboxylic acids. It is a colorless, odorless, and highly corrosive liquid that is used in various industrial and medical applications. TCA is primarily known for its use in chemical peels in dermatology, where it is applied to the skin to treat conditions such as acne scars, sun damage, and wrinkles. It works by causing controlled chemical burns to the skin, leading to the peeling of the outer layers and promoting the growth of new, healthier skin.

In terms of toxicity, TCA is considered hazardous. It can cause severe skin burns and eye damage upon contact, and inhalation of its vapors can lead to respiratory irritation. The corrosive nature of TCA means that it should be handled with extreme caution, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and masks. If ingested or improperly handled, TCA can cause serious health issues, including damage to internal organs.

The viscosity of TCA can vary depending on its concentration. In its concentrated form, TCA is indeed quite thick and sticky. When diluted with water, it becomes less viscous. The concentration of TCA used in medical applications typically ranges from 10% to 50%, with higher concentrations being more effective for deeper chemical peels but also posing greater risks of complications and side effects.

As for the availability of TCA, it is classified as a controlled substance in many jurisdictions due to its hazardous nature. In the United States, TCA can be purchased through chemical supply companies, but it is typically restricted to licensed professionals, such as dermatologists or chemists, who are trained in its safe handling and application. For personal use or in a workplace setting, it is crucial to follow local regulations and guidelines regarding the purchase and use of such chemicals.

Given your situation of having sustained a burn from TCA, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately if you haven't already. Burns from chemicals can lead to serious complications, and prompt treatment is necessary to minimize damage and promote healing. If you are involved in a legal case regarding this incident, it would be wise to consult with a legal professional who specializes in workplace injuries or chemical exposure cases.

In summary, trichloroacetic acid is a potent chemical with both beneficial uses in dermatology and significant risks associated with its handling. It is crucial to approach its use with caution and to seek professional guidance when dealing with chemical burns or exposure.

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