At a Glance Acute iron poisoning from accidental ingestion of iron supplementation is one of the leading causes of pediatric overdose mortality; therefore, iron toxicity should be considered in any case of pediatric overdose. The clinical presentation of iron toxicity manifests in four distinct stages: Stage I (30 min to 6 hours) includes predominantly gastrointestinal…
At a Glance Patients with lead poisoning usually present with nonspecific signs and symptoms, such as abdominal pain, constipation, irritability, difficulty concentrating and anemia. However, the symptoms vary depending on the age of the patient and the route and length of exposure. In acute lead toxicity, ataxia, mental confusion, nausea, and vomiting can be seen.…
At a Glance Heavy metal toxicity should be considered in any patient presenting with renal disease of unexplained origin, bilateral neuropathy, acute changes in mental function, or a history of exposure (such as occupational exposure). Arsenic is probably the best known of the metal toxins. It targets the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, bone marrow, kidneys,…
At a Glance Heavy metal toxicity should be considered in any patient presenting with renal disease of unexplained origin, bilateral neuropathy, acute changes in mental function, or a history of exposure, such as occupational exposure. Patients with mercury toxicity can present with signs and/or symptoms suggestive of either acute or chronic exposure. In acute toxicity,…
