Increased serum iodide concentration from iodine absorption through wounds treated topically with povidone-iodine.

Increased serum iodide concentrations secondary to iodine absorption through wounds treated with povidone-iodine dressings is described. Hyperchloremic acidosis and a disparity between serum chloride concentrations determined by two different methods suggested the presence of an unidentified halide. Cardiovascular instability and renal failure occurred concurrent with systemic iodide accumulation. Measurement of serum iodide concentration should be performed when povidone-iodine is used topically in patients with impaired renal function.