Stages of Iron Toxicity



Iron overdose can cause an anion gap metabolic acidosis. Severe cases can lead to dehydration and shock. Iron overdose should be treated supportively. In severe cases, IV deferoxamine can be given.



Stage I 

• GI Irritation 

• 30 min - 6 hrs 



Stage II Latent 

• Recovery from GI symptoms 

• 6 hrs - 24 hrs 



Stage Ill Shock and metabolic acidosis 

• Metabolic acidosis (anion gap) 

• Dehydration 

• Lactic acidosis 

• 6 hrs - 72 hrs 



 

Stage IV Hepatotoxicity/Hepatic necrosis 

• Fulminant hepatic failure 

• 12 hrs - 96 hrs 



Stage V Bowel obstruction 

• GI mucosa healing leads to scarring 

• 2 wks to 8 wks 



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