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If unknown amount or >40 mg/kg ingested: measure serum iron concentrations 4 hourly until falling or as per advice from toxicologistĪll symptomatic children should have the following investigations:.If liquid ingestion: Abdominal X-rays are not indicated.If tablet ingestion: Abdominal X-ray (AXR) - if negative, no further investigation or observation are required.Progressive increase in iron absorption & distributionĪlways check for a Medicalert bracelet in any unconscious patient, or any other signs of underlying medical condition (fingerprick marks etc.) Investigations * Lack of symptoms within the first 6 hours makes significant toxicity unlikely. In severe iron poisoning, there is often 6-24 hour latent period when initial symptoms resolve, before overt systemic toxicity manifestsĭue to direct injury from iron. Iron dose-response relationship (based on amount of elemental iron): Consider the possibility of Co-ingestants (eg paracetamol), either accidental or deliberate.
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Calculate the maximum possible dose per kg.If possible determine the exact name and tablet size.Presented as syrup, immediate or enteric coated tablets.* Modified release preparations Children requiring assessment Iron is also found in some plant fertilisers, eg sulphate of iron, and in some snail baits, eg iron phosphate.In iron poisoning, the important consideration is the amount of elemental iron ingested, not the amount of iron salt.The amount of elemental iron in each preparation varies depending upon the salt form. Iron preparations are available most commonly in the form of iron salts.Consult a toxicologist when considering administering desferrioxamineįor 24 hour advice, contact the Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26 Background.Abdominal X-ray may be helpful if tablets have been ingested.In severe poisonings, often there is a period of latency where symptoms subside before organ failure occurs.In iron poisoning, the amount of elemental iron ingested determines the risk, not the amount of iron salt.See also Poisoning – Acute guidelines for initial management Resuscitation Key points
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