Abstract |
Air bags, fitted in the majority of new automobiles, are safety devices activated when a sudden deceleration causes the ignition of a propellant cartridge containing sodium azide. The bag is inflated by nitrogen liberated during the combustion. Deployment releases various high-temperature gases, including nitrogen and carbon dioxide, and produces sodium hydroxide, a highly irritant alkaline substance. In about 7%-8% of cases, air bags cause dermatologic injuries such as traumatic lesions, irritant dermatitis, and chemical and thermal burns. Nondermatologic lesions, such as ocular damage ( alkali keratitis, corneal abrasions), ear lesions, bone fractures, and contusive damage can also be caused by air bag deployment.
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Authors | Monica Corazza, Silvana Trincone, Maria Rosaria Zampino, Annarosa Virgili |
Journal | Skinmed
(Skinmed)
2004 Sep-Oct
Vol. 3
Issue 5
Pg. 256-8
ISSN: 1540-9740 [Print] United States |
PMID | 15365261
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
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Topics |
- Air Bags
(adverse effects)
- Humans
- Skin
(injuries)
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