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 #Stages #Iron #Toxicity #Toxicology #Diagnosis #Overdose
