Pediatric liver transplantation for fulminant hepatic failure secondary to intentional iron overdose

Pediatr Transplant. 2017 Sep;21(6). doi: 10.1111/petr.12994. Epub 2017 Jun 15.

Abstract

Acute iron poisoning may lead to life-threatening hepatotoxicity. We present the cases of two pediatric patients with hepatotoxicity following intentional iron ingestion that progressed rapidly to fulminant hepatic failure despite treatment with deferoxamine. Liver transplantation was lifesaving in both patients. These cases emphasize the need for a high index of suspicion for iron ingestion, close monitoring for liver toxicity, and timely consideration for liver transplantation.

Keywords: hepatotoxicity; ingestion; iron; liver; pediatric; transplant.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Drug Overdose / complications*
  • Female
  • Ferrous Compounds / poisoning*
  • Humans
  • Liver Failure, Acute / chemically induced
  • Liver Failure, Acute / surgery*
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Suicide, Attempted*

Substances

  • Ferrous Compounds
  • ferrous sulfate