Pediatric poisonings from household products: hydrofluoric acid and methacrylic acid

Household products continue to be a cause of poisoning morbibidity and mortality. Young children frequently are exposed to cleaning products and cosmetics in the course of exploring their environment. Most of these exposures are insignificant, but some result in death or permanent disability. This review discusses two products that have been responsible for serious injury and death in children: hydrofluoric acid and methacrylic acid. it also discusses federal initiatives designed to protect children from these and other household hazards. (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.