Hemochromatosis: Way Too Much Iron

Hemochromatosis is an iron overload disorder in which excessive iron gets absorbed and stored, damaging the liver, pituitary, pancreas, heart, thyroid, and more. It is a common inherited disease but can also occur secondary to other conditions. 

Hemochromatosis may be asymptomatic but can progress and cause fatigue, joint pain, and skin darkening, as well as more serious complications including diabetes, heart failure, hypothyroidism, and cirrhosis.

Genetic and blood chemistry testing is essential to diagnosing hemochromatosis as early as possible to minimize the progression of the disease. The strict control of iron intake is indicated, and phlebotomy and/or chelation may be used to remove excess iron from the body.

CLICK HERE to read more about hemochromatosis, pathophysiology, genetic and biomarker changes, etc.