Toilet Cleansing Agent (Harpic) Poisoning and its Outcome among Patients attending in Rajshahi Medical College Hospital

Background: Harpic is a toilet cleansing agent. Due to its accessibility, Harpic poisoning is common among young people. We conducted this study to assess the poisoning of the toilet cleansing agent (Harpic) and its outcome among patients attending Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. Methodology: This observational study involved 50 patients who were exposed to Harpic poisoning in the medicine department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital from January 2018 to December 2018. Results: Here, the female-to-male ratio was 3.55:1, and the mean age of the patients was 24.9 ± 6.3 years. Most (74%) were between 18 and 30 years old. Our patients were more from urban areas (76%) than rural areas (34%). 78% of the cases were either illiterate or below the SSC level. 88% of patients took Harpic for suicidal attempts. The average amount of Harpic ingestion was 21.6 ± 8.4 ml. In all cases, the tongue, throat, and abdomen felt painful and burning. 54% had endoscopic evidence of injury in different grades, including 20% had Grade II A injuries, 2% had Grade IIB lesions, and 32% had Grade III lesions. Around 84% of cases completely recovered, whereas the rest developed some complications. Only one case developed esophageal stricture. Fortunately, no death occurred. Conclusion: In this study, younger individuals often ingested Harpic as a means of suicide, with more cases among females living in urban areas. Grade III lesions were predominant on endoscopy, and about 85% were fully cured. The study’s limitations include a short follow-up period and a small sample size, suggesting the need for further research.