Effect of an Acute Iron Overdose on PMN Cells Chemiluminescence and Indices of Inner Environment in a Swine Model

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of an acute iron dextran administration on polymorphonuclear cells chemiluminescence and indices of inner environment in piglets. Piglets in the experimental group (n = 16) were given 2000 mg (20 ml) Fe3+ in the form of iron dextran i.m. Piglets in the control group (n = 13) were given the same amount of physiological saline. Blood was taken before administration, and 1, 4 and 24 hours after. Iron application resulted in a ten times higher concentration of iron in blood plasma in the experimental group. No differences in spontaneous, PMA- and OZP-stimulated chemiluminescence were recorded between the two groups. The increased activities of CK, AST and LDH are indicative of a muscle injury at the injection site. No changes indicating liver or kidney injury were reported. Our study provides evidence of a good safety of iron dextran after parenteral administration