Hemochromatosis Information

Hemochromatosis, the most common form of iron overload disease. In the United States, most cases are a result of a genetic predisposition to absorb iron in excess of normal, and such disease is referred to as hereditary hemochromatosis. It is a crippling, potentially fatal condition caused by a defect of iron metabolism that leads to iron overload in vital organs, joints and tissues. Hereditary hemochromatosis is an adult-onset disorder characterized by inappropriately high iron absorption resulting in progressive iron overload. Full development of the disease in women is restricted by menstruation, pregnancy, and lower dietary intake of iron. There are two forms of hemochromatosis: primary and secondary.

Hemochromatosis affects more men than women. In males, symptoms may not appear until 40-50 years of age. It is particularly common in Caucasians of western European descent. Hemochromatosis disease mostly becomes apparent after age 40 years in men and after age 50 years in women. If left undiagnosed and untreated, iron overloading can cause serious and sometimes fatal health problems. Early detection of iron overload and hemochromatosis treatment can delay or prevent irreversible complications and prolong life.

Symptom of Hemochromatosis

• arthritis
• liver disease
• cirrhosis, cancer
• damage to the pancreas
• heart abnormalities
• impotence
• early menopause
• abnormal pigmentation of the skin
• thyroid deficiency
• damage to the adrenal gland

Hemochromatosis Treatment

The goal of treatment is to remove excess iron from the body and treat any organ damage. Hemochromatosis can be effectively treated by removing blood from your body to lower your level of iron. Patients who cannot tolerate phlebotomy due to other medical problems can be treated with Desferal (desferrioxamine). Hemochromatosis can be detected with simple blood tests. The treatment of choice, phlebotomy, is relatively easy and inexpensive. Treatment for idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis is based on symptoms. Testosterone hormone therapy can help improve the loss of sexual desire and changes in secondary sexual characteristics. Diabetes, arthritis, liver failure, and heart failure should be treated.