Extravasation of an intravenous iron infusion can result in a persistent skin pigmentation.
Extravasated iron discolors the skin a light brown, resembling a bruise. This can cause a problem in cosmesis, especially if the extravasation is large or if the patient has light-colored skin.
Duration: may persist for over 6 months
Therapy: Q-switched laser
Prevention:
(1) Careful insertion of intravenous cannula.
(2) Monitoring of the site during infusion for early recognition of any extravasation.
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