Clinical Approach to Acute Iron Poisoning: Case Series

Abstract

Aim: Although acute iron poisoning is more common in the pediatric age, it may be seen at any age and is an important clinical condition. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the etiological factors and diagnosis and discuss treatment approaches in the acute iron poisoning. Material and Methods: Eight patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit due to acute iron poisoning were analyzed. Data regarding demographic features, cause of poisoning, toxic agents, the route of exposure, a history of previous toxicity, the time between exposure and intensive care unit admission, the owner of the poisoning agent (the patient or someone else), consciousness status on arrival, Glasgow coma score, the length of the intensive care unit stay, the result of laboratory tests, methods of treatment, and outcome were evaluated. Results: All 8 patients were female and the mean age was 22±5,4 years. The most common symptoms were abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. The amount of received elemental iron was 30,25±11,4mg/kg. Nasogastric catheters were inserted and gastric lavages were performed to all the patients in the emergency department. Deferoxamine treatment was not implemented because of serum iron levels were not higher than 500 mg / dL. After observing all patients for two days, one patient was transferred to psychiatric clinic, 7 patients were discharged with full recovery. Conclusions: In potentially fatal acute iron poisoning, serious complications can be avoided with early laboratory and clinical follow-up. The basic supportive therapy with gastric lavage and desferroksamine therapy should be managed on time. Key Words: Acute Iron Poisoning; Intensive are; Deferoxamine.