Phenol burns treated with conservative therapy: A case report

Phenol, a corrosive aromatic compound, is used in many polymers and plastics for industrial purposes. It has previously been used as an antiseptic agent. Phenol burns are partially thick and may cause skin hyperpigmentation. Surgical intervention, including debridement, is often unnecessary. We report the case of a resin industrial worker who sustained phenol burns in both lower extremities due to a work accident. The estimated total body surface area (TBSA) was 11 %. His wound showed signs of epithelialization 7 days after the burn injury without debridement or skin grafting, with daily water irrigation and dressing alone. The patient was discharged from the hospital on day 23 after the accident with no residual organ damage or functional impairment. A conservative approach to phenol burns would be of great benefit to patients in terms of functional prognosis.