Which of the following is a consequence of iron excess or poisoning?

Iron excess or poisoning can result in several serious health consequences due to the toxic effects of excess iron in the body. One major consequence is liver necrosis. Iron is primarily stored in the liver, and excessive amounts can lead to oxidative stress and damage to liver cells, resulting in necrosis or cell death.

Additionally, iron overload can cause gastrointestinal toxicity, often presenting as hemorrhagic gastritis. The acidity in the stomach combined with high levels of iron can lead to irritation of the gastric mucosa, resulting in inflammation, ulceration, and subsequent bleeding, which is characteristic of hemorrhagic gastritis.

Together, these two conditions—liver necrosis and hemorrhagic gastritis—illustrate the detrimental effects of iron in excess. The presence of both conditions as consequences of iron toxicity is why the option encompassing both is the correct choice.

Other conditions such as microcytic anemia are typically associated with iron deficiency rather than iron excess, as excess iron can actually disrupt the normal balance of iron metabolism and cause secondary effects but does not lead to microcytic anemia directly. Hence, in the context of iron poisoning, the focus on liver and gastrointestinal effects is paramount.