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[Acute iron poisoning. A case report]
1Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Clínico Universitario de San Juan Alicante, España. fjoverdiaz@coma.es
Revista Medica De Chile
|August 21, 2001
Summary
Iron poisoning is a serious toxicological emergency, especially in children. A plain abdominal X-ray can quickly diagnose acute iron poisoning, aiding in prompt treatment with desferrioxamine chelation.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Iron-containing products are common and pose a significant toxicological risk.
- Iron ingestion is a leading cause of fatal pediatric unintentional poisonings.
- Adult iron overdoses occur via accidental overdose or intentional suicidal attempts.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old woman intentionally ingested iron pills.
- A plain abdominal X-ray revealed over 20 pills in her stomach.
- The patient was treated successfully with intravenous desferrioxamine.
Findings:
- Plain abdominal X-ray is a valuable diagnostic tool for acute iron poisoning.
- Early diagnosis via radiography facilitates timely and effective treatment.
- Intravenous desferrioxamine chelation is an effective treatment for iron overdose.
Implications:
- Radiographic assessment should be considered in suspected acute iron poisoning cases.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent severe complications and fatalities.
- Public awareness regarding the dangers of iron-containing products is crucial.