Second degree burn to mustard powder

Dermatol Online J. 2017 Jan 15;23(1):13030/qt85q7r4wx.

Abstract

Mustard seeds and powder are commonly used inhomeopathic and traditional medicines, in whichthey are believed to have both anti-microbial andanti-inflammatory properties. They are thereforeutilized in the treatment of conditions ranging fromarthritis to respiratory congestion. Herein, we presenta patient with a second degree burn who usedmustard powder in the form of a mustard plasterto treat chest congestion. She experienced seconddegree burn wounds to the lower neck and chest, andrecovery with complete re-epithelialization followingtopical silver sulfadiazine, liberal emollient therapy,and triamcinolone ointment. This case highlightsthe potential danger of inappropriate use of topicalhomeopathic remedies such as mustard powder anddetails a successful treatment regimen.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local / therapeutic use
  • Burns, Chemical / diagnosis*
  • Burns, Chemical / etiology
  • Emollients / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Mustard Plant*
  • Neck
  • Seeds*
  • Silver Sulfadiazine / therapeutic use
  • Thorax
  • Triamcinolone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local
  • Emollients
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Triamcinolone
  • Silver Sulfadiazine