Fulminant Hepatic Failure Associated with ARDS Secondary to Iron Intoxication: A Case Report

Fulminant hepatic failure is a fatal complication of iron intoxication. Currently, there is no well-established treatment. A 23-year-old Japanese woman, with past medical history of iron deficiency anemia, presented with fulminant hepatic failure caused by iron intoxication. Multiple organ failure progressed despite plasma exchanges and deferoxamine therapy, and she subsequently developed acute respiratory distress syndrome. Even though Venous-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation was inserted, she expired. Early treatment for iron intoxication with whole bowel decontamination and deferoxamine infusion is crucial. Liver transplantation also remains a treatment option for patients with fulminant hepatic failure secondary to iron intoxication.