Fatal iron toxicity in an adult: Clinical profile and review

Acute iron toxicity is usually seen in children with accidental ingestion of iron-containing syrups. However, the literature on acute iron toxicity with suicidal intent in adults is scant. We report an instance wherein an adult committed suicide by ingestion of multiple iron tablets. Delay in treatment was there due to misdiagnosis of the intoxicating agent. She developed fulminant hepatic failure with rapid clinical deterioration. Despite aggressive supportive management, the patient succumbed to the toxic doses of iron. Clinical course and postmortem features are discussed with a review of the literature.