What is the recommended treatment for extravasation of mechlorethamine?

The recommended treatment for the extravasation of mechlorethamine, which is a potent vesicant, is sodium thiosulfate injection. When extravasation occurs, the primary goal is to neutralize the damaging effects of the medication and promote healing. Sodium thiosulfate acts as a scavenger for the toxic effect of mechlorethamine, effectively neutralizing the drug and limiting tissue damage.

The use of sodium thiosulfate is particularly important due to the severe consequences associated with extravasation of vescicants like mechlorethamine, which can lead to significant local tissue necrosis. Administering sodium thiosulfate directly combats the toxicity, enhancing recovery and minimizing complications.

Other methods are less effective in this situation. Cold compress therapy is often used for pain relief and to reduce swelling but does not neutralize the chemical itself. Intravenous hydration helps with overall fluid balance but does not address the local tissue damage caused by extravasation of a vesicant. Topical steroid application may reduce inflammation but is not a direct treatment for the effects of mechlorethamine extravasation.