Metallic iron does not give toxicity problems, although there are people with congenital defects in matabolism, for whom it behaves like a poison. Iron salts are pharmaceuticals for the treatment of anemia, and in case of overdose they can be very dangerous. Taken orally, iron salts are irritating to the gastrointestinal tract. The main symptoms are vomiting, epigastric pain, and diarrhea. Later, pulmonary edema, metabolic acidosis, and renal failure may appear.
Diagnosis and treatments
Aside from signs and history, a serum iron level above 8 mg in an adult and 5 mg in a child depicts dangerous poisoning. After determining that it is iron poisoning, gastric lavage is necessary. At the same time, vigorous resuscitative treatment should be started, taking care to restore hydroelectrolyte balance. In the case of renal failure, peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis should be undertaken.
Source: Vadecum of poisoning therapy by Roy Goulding
