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Fatal iron intoxication in late pregnancy
M Olenmark1, B Biber, O Dottori
1Department of Anaesthesiology, Ostra Hospital, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
A pregnant woman experienced severe iron intoxication, leading to fatal hepatic necrosis despite delayed deferoxamine treatment. This case highlights iron
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Iron poisoning is a significant concern, particularly in pregnant individuals.
- Elemental iron, often from ferrous sulfate supplements, can cause severe toxicity.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old pregnant woman ingested 5 g of elemental iron (25 g ferrous sulfate).
- Deferoxamine treatment was initiated 26 hours post-ingestion.
- A healthy infant was delivered via C-section 31 hours after iron ingestion.
Findings:
- The patient developed hepatic necrosis, coma, and hemostatic dysfunction.
- The patient ultimately expired from cardiac failure two weeks later.
- This case suggests a lower lethal iron dose in adults compared to children and highlights potential for severe hepatic dysfunction.
Implications:
- The case underscores the critical need for prompt management of iron overdose in adults, especially during pregnancy.
- While deferoxamine's efficacy in this severe adult case remains debated, its consideration for early administration is recommended.
- Further research into optimal management strategies for severe iron intoxication in pregnancy is warranted.