Phosphate poisoning complicating treatment for iron ingestion
Abstract:
A 15-month-old child was treated for iron intoxication with a hypertonic sodium phosphate mixture. Clinical deterioration manifested by fever, obtundation, abdominal distention, dehydration, and hypotension followed soon after the administration of this mixture. Such symptoms may occur with either iron overdosage or with phosphate poisoning. At this time, the patient's serum chemistry values included: iron, 49 micrograms/dL; phosphorus, 24.6 mg/dL; and calcium, 4.5 mg/dL. The hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and dehydration were treated with parenteral gluconate calcium, intravenous fluids, and general supportive measures. Although the child had an uneventful recovery despite severe phosphate poisoning, therapeutic alternatives, such as sodium bicarbonate, should be used as adjuncts in the treatment of acute iron ingestion.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Introduction to Electrolytes
Role of Sodium
One...
Prevention of Further Absorption of Poison
Enhanced Elimination of Poison
Antidotes serve a crucial role in counteracting the effects of poison by inhibiting enzymes responsible for producing harmful drug metabolites. In some cases, these toxic metabolites can be neutralized by endogenous cosubstrates, which are maintained at specific concentrations to prevent interaction with cellular macromolecules and subsequent cell death.
Renal excretion is the...
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Treatment Strategies
Antiprotozoal Agents


