Case Report: Chemical gastropathy associated with Scotch mint candy ingestion

Erosive lesions may occur in the gastric mucosa after exposure to toxic substances such as alcohol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or iron. Candies rarely contain compounds that cause mucosal erosions. However, Scotch mints in combination with carbonated sodas are known to cause vigorous effervescence. The microporous surface of Scotch mint candy allows for rapid release of dissolved carbon dioxide from carbonated soda that produces carbon dioxide bubbles. We report a case of a 3-year-old child who presented with abdominal pain and feeding refusal and was found to have erosive chemical gastropathy. Dietary history revealed ingestion of Scotch mint candies and lemon-lime soda for 2 days prior to the onset of symptoms. This case demonstrates the potential for mucosal injury when ingesting excessive amounts of Scotch mint candy and carbonated soda and the importance of a careful dietary history in children with gastrointestinal mucosal injury.