Systemic manifestations following ingestion of small amounts of acetic acid by a child

Acetic acid ingestion can cause hemolysis, DIC, respiratory and renal insufficiency, and hepatic necrosis. Only a few cases of acetic acid ingestion have been described in the past, most of which caused hemolysis, and one description of hepatic necrosis. All of these were reported in adults, usually as a suicide attempt with ingestion of large amounts. Severe symptoms have not been reported so far in children following accidental ingestion of small amounts of acetic acid. We report of a 3-year-old child who ingested a minimal amount of 60% acetic acid and developed hemolysis and hepatic dysfunction.