Iron poisoning.

Based on the metabolism, pathophysiology and clinical picture of iron poisoning, a treatment protocol for the emergency department is presented. For insignificant amounts, treatment is ipecac and oral bicarbonate. For ingestions of amounts greater than 150 mg/kg, even if the patient is asymptomatic, hospital observation is necessary. Chelation therapy with Desferal is reserved for patients with free serum iron, and probably for patients who present in coma, shock, or convulsions.