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Child abuse by intentional iron poisoning presenting as shock and persistent acidosis
1Oregon Health and Sciences University, Department of Pediatrics, Portland, OR 97201-2901, USA.
Pediatrics
|January 2, 2003
Insights
Intentional iron poisoning in infants can occur, often indicated by persistent acidosis and caregiver indifference. Physicians should consider common household iron supplements as a potential source for such poisonings.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatrics
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Iron poisoning is a significant concern in pediatric populations.
- Accidental ingestion is more commonly reported than intentional poisoning.
- Household iron supplements pose a risk of toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of intentional iron poisoning in an infant.
- To highlight clinical indicators of intentional poisoning.
- To raise awareness among healthcare providers about this underrecognized cause of poisoning.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation.
- Clinical observation of patient's condition, including persistent acidosis.
- Assessment of caregiver behavior and history.
Main Results:
- A diagnosis of intentional iron poisoning was established.
- Persistent acidosis was a key clinical finding.
- Maternal indifference was observed and contributed to the diagnostic suspicion.
Conclusions:
- Intentional iron poisoning is a possibility that clinicians should consider in infants presenting with unexplained symptoms.
- Healthcare providers must be vigilant for signs of intentional poisoning, even when accidental ingestion is more common.
- Commonly available iron supplements in households represent a potential source for intentional pediatric poisoning, necessitating increased awareness and preventative strategies.
Abstract:
A case of intentional iron poisoning presented to our hospital. The patient's persistent acidosis and the team's observation of maternal indifference indicated the diagnosis. This case should alert physicians to a potential source for intentional poisoning that is present in most homes with young infants.