Silver nitrate is used in medicine to treat a number of conditions because of its cauterizing properties. This case report describes management of a
silver nitrate burn of the oral mucosa that resulted in a large mass of necrotic tissue and accompanying
pain in a 41-year-old man. The patient bit his lip and received
silver nitrate treatment from a physician. Significant swelling and
pain occurred over a period of 3 weeks after application. Analysis of a biopsy specimen revealed necrotic tissue with chronically inflamed granulation tissue. The lesion persisted, and it was determined that
debridement was necessary to enhance wound healing and prevent significant
scar formation. The patient was reexamined 10 days and 1 month after
debridement. The lesion had significantly decreased in size, and the patient reported notable reduction of
pain. The final follow-up at 3 months showed a desirable result with minimal
scar formation. Use of concentrated
silver nitrate for
cautery can result in significant damage to mucous membranes, including oral mucosa.